Senior Congress Leader and Former Punjab Minister Lal Singh Passes Away at 83
Senior Congress leader and former Punjab minister Lal Singh died on Saturday at the age of 83 in Patiala. He had been undergoing treatment at Max Hospital in Mohali for several days due to lung and cardiac-related health issues, as confirmed by family members.
Political Career and Legacy
Lal Singh's political career spanned nearly five decades, marked by strong grassroots connectivity in the Patiala region. He first entered the Punjab legislative assembly in 1977 from Dakala in Patiala district, winning as an MLA when the Congress party secured only around 15 seats. Over the years, he represented the constituency five times before winning from Sanaur in 2012 after delimitation.
His son and former legislator, Rajinder Singh, highlighted his father's long association with the Congress, stating, "My father remained associated with the Congress for more than 45 years. He first won as MLA in 1977 and had previously served as district Congress president. Later, he became finance minister."
Key Positions and Contributions
Lal Singh held several significant roles in the Punjab government, including:
- Finance minister in the Captain Amarinder Singh-led government.
- Handling the food and civil supplies department.
- Serving as chairman of the Punjab Mandi Board.
- Acting president of the Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee.
Before the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, he publicly expressed his desire to contest from the Patiala parliamentary seat, sharing a video message that recalled his extensive political journey and unwavering commitment to the Congress party.
Tributes and Condolences
Punjab Congress president Amarinder Singh Raja Warring paid tribute on social media, saying, "We have lost a senior leader of Punjab politics. His long public life and experience will be remembered. He was respected across political lines and maintained relationships beyond party differences."
The family announced that the cremation is expected to take place in Patiala on Sunday, honoring his legacy and contributions to the state's political landscape.
