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Who Was Satyapal Malik?
Satyapal Malik, born on 24 July 1946 in Hisawada, Uttar Pradesh, was a veteran politician whose career spanned over five decades. He emerged from humble roots to serve in India’s Parliament and Rajya Sabha, before being appointed as Governor of multiple states in a transformative period of Indian politics.
He began his political journey in the Bharatiya Kranti Dal, a party founded by Chaudhary Charan Singh, and was later associated with Congress, Janata Dal, and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This diverse background helped him connect across ideologies and regions.
Political Timeline and Key Positions
Malik held numerous significant positions:
| Year | Role |
|---|---|
| 1974 | MLA from Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh |
| 1980-89 | Member of Rajya Sabha |
| 1989-91 | Lok Sabha MP from Aligarh |
| 2017 | Governor of Bihar |
| 2018 | Additional charge of Odisha |
| 2018-2019 | Governor of Jammu & Kashmir |
| 2019-2020 | Governor of Goa |
| 2020-2022 | Governor of Meghalaya |
Each role came with distinct challenges, but none more intense than his stint in Jammu & Kashmir during a period of national transformation.
J&K Governorship: A Historic Tenure
Satyapal Malik is perhaps best remembered as the last Governor of the state of Jammu & Kashmir before its bifurcation into two Union Territories in 2019. His term coincided with two major historical moments:
- Pulwama Terror Attack (Feb 2019):
40 CRPF soldiers were killed in one of the deadliest terror attacks in Kashmir. Malik later alleged that there were lapses in intelligence and that requests for air travel for jawans were ignored. - Abrogation of Article 370 (Aug 2019):
On 5 August 2019, Article 370, which granted special status to J&K, was revoked by the Indian government. Malik oversaw the delicate administrative handling, including internet shutdowns, curfews, and political detentions.
His role was both controversial and defining, positioning him as a key player in one of the boldest moves by the Modi government.
Later Appointments and Farmer Advocacy
After leaving J&K, Malik was appointed as Governor of Goa in October 2019, and later as Governor of Meghalaya in 2020. During these tenures, he maintained a low administrative profile but increasingly voiced concerns about national policies, especially those affecting farmers.
He became one of the few government officials to openly support the 2020–2021 farmers’ protests against the controversial farm laws. He consistently demanded fair treatment for rural communities and urged the central government to resolve farmer grievances through dialogue rather than confrontation.
His vocal support earned him respect among farmer unions, while straining ties with BJP leadership.
Controversies and Outspoken Nature
Satyapal Malik was not a conventional politician. Even while holding constitutional posts, he often made bold public statements:
- Pulwama revelations: He alleged that the tragedy could have been avoided if certain government requests were honored. These claims generated political storms and led to accusations of politicizing security matters.
- Corruption in hydropower project: He spoke of alleged corruption in the ₹2,200 crore Kiru Hydropower Project in J&K. These claims later led to a CBI investigation, with Malik being named in a chargesheet in 2024.
Despite mounting legal troubles, Malik never backed down. He believed it was his duty to “speak the truth, even if it’s uncomfortable.”
Health Battles and Final Days
Malik had long struggled with health issues. Diagnosed with:
- Diabetic kidney disease
- Hypertension
- Morbid obesity
- Sleep apnea
He was admitted to Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, New Delhi, in May 2025. In the weeks leading to his death, he developed septic shock and acute kidney injury. Despite intensive treatments—including ventilation, dialysis, and cytosorb therapy—his condition deteriorated.
He passed away on August 5, 2025, at around 1:12 PM, exactly six years after the abrogation of Article 370—a coincidence that deeply resonated across political circles.
National Reaction to His Death
Leaders from across the spectrum paid tribute:
- PM Narendra Modi offered condolences, acknowledging Malik’s “long service to the nation.”
- Congress leader Rahul Gandhi recognized his outspoken courage.
- Farmer unions across Punjab and Haryana observed moments of silence.
- Social media flooded with tributes, videos of his speeches, and calls to remember him as a “people’s Governor.”
Legacy of Satyapal Malik
Satyapal Malik leaves behind a complex yet impactful legacy:
- A champion for rural India, despite being a part of the establishment.
- A key figure during one of India’s most transformative moments—the abrogation of Article 370.
- A rare example of a Governor who defied silence and chose to challenge the government while still in office.
He is remembered as bold, unpredictable, and fiercely independent.
FAQs
1. What was Satyapal Malik’s role during the Pulwama attack?
He was the Governor of J&K at the time. He later stated there were lapses in intelligence sharing and logistics for CRPF personnel.
2. When did he become the Governor of J&K?
He took office in August 2018 and served until the reorganization of the state in October 2019.
3. Why was he in the news after retirement?
He made several critical remarks against government policies and supported farmers’ protests, gaining national attention.
4. What caused his death?
Malik passed away due to complications from septic shock, kidney failure, and multiple organ issues.
5. Was he part of any corruption investigations?
Yes. His allegations about corruption in the Kiru Hydropower Project led to a CBI probe, and he was later chargesheeted.
6. How is he remembered today?
As a straight-talking administrator, a voice for the marginalized, and a key witness to pivotal national events.
Conclusion: End of an Era
The passing of Satyapal Malik marks the end of a rare chapter in Indian politics—where a constitutional authority spoke truth to power and stood firm even in the face of criticism and legal battles. His tenure in Jammu & Kashmir alone would secure him a place in history, but his broader legacy is that of a statesman with spine.
He leaves behind not just a record of public service, but also a challenge to future leaders: to stand for the people, no matter the cost.