Dehradun, May 19
Former Chief Minister of Uttarakhand and senior BJP leader Major General (Retd) Bhuwan Chandra Khanduri has passed away at the age of 91.
Notably, Khanduri first became the Chief Minister of Uttarakhand in 2007 and served in the post from March 2007 to June 2009. During his tenure, he focused on administrative reforms, road infrastructure and transparency in governance. Khanduri earned a reputation as a decisive leader, known for his uncompromising approach to administration. Discipline and integrity defined his governance style, setting him apart in Uttarakhand’s political landscape.
After the BJP’s setback in the 2009 Lok Sabha elections, Khanduri stepped down as chief minister, taking moral responsibility for the outcome. Yet, in 2011, the party once again turned to his leadership, and he returned to head the state from September 2011 to March 2012.
During his second tenure, he reinforced his tough stance against corruption and championed transparency in government. His image as a strict and honest administrator resonated widely, encapsulated in the popular slogan “Khanduri Hai Zaroori”—a reflection of public faith in his commitment to clean governance and development.
Uttarakhand Assembly Speaker Ritu Khanduri Bhushan, his daughter, paid an emotional tribute, recalling how he consistently upheld honesty and dedication to duty. She described his passing as a deeply personal and irreparable loss.
Expressing his heartfelt condolences, Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami said, “During his service in the Indian Army, Khanduri set an unparalleled example of national service, discipline, and dedication. From military life to public life, his personality remained devoted to the nation’s interest and public service. In political life, he established a strong identity for Uttarakhand’s development, good governance, transparency, and honest working style.”
Dhami further said, “As a people’s leader, he took many important decisions for the progress of the state and, through his simplicity, forthrightness, and efficiency, earned a special place in people’s hearts. His demise is an irreparable loss not only for Uttarakhand but also for national politics. We pray to the Almighty to grant the noble soul a place at His feet and give strength to the bereaved family to bear this grief.”
