Former Chief Election Commissioner MS Gill Passes Away in Delhi at 86

New Delhi: Manohar Singh Gill, former Chief Election Commissioner of India and a senior Congress leader, passed away at the age of 86 in Delhi on Sunday, October 15, 2023. Gill, a widely respected figure in Indian politics and governance, breathed his last at Max Hospital in South Delhi’s Saket area. His death marks the end of an illustrious career dedicated to public service and electoral reform in India.

Gill’s last rites are scheduled to take place on Monday, October 16, in Delhi, with family members, political leaders, and well-wishers expected to pay their respects. As news of his passing spread, tributes began pouring in from across the political spectrum, with many leaders remembering him as a stalwart of Indian democracy.

A Legacy in Public Service
MS Gill’s contributions to India’s democratic process are well-recognized, particularly for his role as the Chief Election Commissioner of India from 1996 to 2001. During his tenure, Gill played a pivotal role in modernizing the election process in the country. He is credited with overseeing critical electoral reforms that strengthened the Election Commission’s authority and enhanced transparency in Indian elections.

One of the most notable achievements during his tenure was the introduction of the Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) in the election process, a technology that revolutionized how elections were conducted in India. His efforts in ensuring free and fair elections earned him widespread respect, both nationally and internationally.

For his immense contributions to the nation, MS Gill was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award. He was a committed public servant who believed in the integrity of the democratic process, a belief that guided much of his work at the Election Commission.

Political Career and Contributions
Apart from his role as Chief Election Commissioner, MS Gill had a successful career as a politician, particularly with the Indian National Congress. After retiring from the Election Commission, he transitioned into active politics, serving as a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha.

Gill also held significant positions within the government, including serving as the Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports. During his tenure, he focused on promoting sports and youth development across the country. His leadership in sports administration saw India hosting major international sports events, such as the Commonwealth Games.

As a senior Congress leader, he was known for his straightforwardness and dedication to the values of democracy and public service. His passing is seen as a significant loss for the Congress party and the nation at large.

Tributes Pour In
Upon learning of his passing, several political leaders and public figures expressed their condolences, remembering MS Gill for his integrity, leadership, and contributions to Indian democracy. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a statement, paid tribute to Gill, calling him a “dedicated public servant who played a crucial role in strengthening India’s democratic institutions.”

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also expressed his sorrow, stating, “MS Gill’s passing is a deep loss for the nation. He was not just a leader of the Congress but a guardian of India’s democratic processes.”

A Padma Vibhushan Awardee
MS Gill was honored with the prestigious Padma Vibhushan award in recognition of his significant contributions to public service and electoral reforms. The award, presented in 2000, was a testament to his tireless work in modernizing India’s electoral system and ensuring its fairness. Throughout his life, Gill remained committed to the ideals of democracy and justice, making him a revered figure in Indian public life.

Personal Life and Early Career
Born in Punjab, MS Gill had a distinguished academic background and started his career in public administration before being appointed to the Election Commission. His calm demeanor, paired with a firm commitment to upholding the democratic process, earned him respect in every position he held.

Throughout his career, Gill maintained close ties to his roots in Punjab, even as he took on national roles. His deep connection to the state shaped much of his approach to governance and public service.

Last Rites on October 16
MS Gill’s final rites will be performed on Monday, October 16, in Delhi, where family members, friends, political leaders, and well-wishers will gather to bid farewell. As the nation mourns the loss of one of its most respected public figures, his contributions to India’s democratic framework will continue to be remembered and appreciated for generations to come.