Satyapal Malik Cause of Death: On August 5, 2025, India lost a prominent political figure, Satyapal Malik, who passed away at the age of 79. The former Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, along with several other states, succumbed to a prolonged illness at Delhi’s Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital. His death marks the end of a remarkable political journey that spanned over five decades, filled with significant contributions and controversies. This article explores the cause of Satyapal Malik’s death, his health struggles, and the legacy he leaves behind.
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A Prolonged Battle with Chronic Illness
Satyapal Malik had been battling serious health issues for an extended period, which ultimately led to his passing. According to reports from RML Hospital, Malik was admitted on May 11, 2025, with a complicated urinary tract infection (UTI). This condition, combined with his pre-existing health problems, set off a chain of complications that proved fatal. The hospital’s statement detailed the severity of his condition, shedding light on the challenges he faced in his final months.
- Complicated UTI: Malik’s initial admission was due to a severe urinary tract infection, which can cause significant discomfort and, if untreated, lead to serious complications.
- Kidney Failure: Malik had a longstanding history of diabetic kidney disease, which worsened over time, requiring multiple dialysis sessions.
- Sepsis and Multi-Organ Dysfunction: The UTI triggered refractory septic shock, compounded by hospital-acquired pneumonia, leading to multi-organ failure.
- Other Chronic Conditions: Malik also suffered from hypertension, morbid obesity, and obstructive sleep apnea, all of which added to his health burdens.
Despite aggressive medical interventions, including antibiotics, ventilatory support, and critical care management, Malik’s condition continued to deteriorate. The hospital noted that he developed disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) and acute kidney injury on top of his chronic kidney disease, making recovery nearly impossible.
The Final Days: Updates from Malik Himself
In the weeks leading up to his death, Malik remained candid about his health struggles, sharing updates on his social media accounts. On May 22, 2025, he posted about his kidney failure and ongoing dialysis, giving his followers a glimpse into the severity of his condition. His transparency about his health resonated with many, showcasing his resilience even in the face of grave illness. These updates also highlighted the importance of timely medical intervention for conditions like UTI and kidney disease, which can escalate rapidly if not managed properly.
Malik’s final days were spent in the intensive care unit at RML Hospital, where he received round-the-clock care. His passing was confirmed by his aide, Kanwar Singh Rana, and a post on his official X account read, “Former Governor Chaudhary Satya Pal Singh Malik Ji is no more.” The announcement sent waves of grief across political circles and among his supporters, who admired his outspoken nature and dedication to public service.
A Storied Political Career
Satyapal Malik’s political journey began in the 1960s, inspired by the socialist ideology of Ram Manohar Lohia. Born on July 24, 1946, in Hisawada village in Uttar Pradesh’s Baghpat district, Malik came from a Jat family and rose through the ranks of student politics. He served as a member of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly in the 1970s and later represented Uttar Pradesh in the Rajya Sabha. His career saw him align with multiple political parties, including the Bharatiya Kranti Dal, Janata Dal, Congress, Lok Dal, Samajwadi Party, and eventually the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
- Governorships: Malik served as Governor of Bihar, Odisha, Jammu and Kashmir, Goa, and Meghalaya, with his tenure in Jammu and Kashmir being particularly notable.
- Article 370 Abrogation: As the last Governor of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir, he was in office during the historic revocation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019.
- Farmer Protests: Malik gained attention for supporting the 2020–2021 farmers’ protests, criticizing the central government’s handling of the issue.
His tenure as Governor of Jammu and Kashmir was marked by significant events, including the abrogation of Article 370 and the Pulwama terror attack in 2019, which claimed the lives of 40 CRPF personnel. Malik later made headlines for alleging security lapses in the Pulwama attack and claiming that the central government had asked him to stay silent on the matter.
Controversies and Criticism
Malik was known for his outspoken nature, which often put him at odds with the ruling BJP government. His criticism of the central government intensified after his tenure as Governor, particularly during the farmers’ protests. He accused the government of ignoring the plight of farmers and failing to address corruption. In a 2023 interview, Malik alleged that the Pulwama attack resulted from a “grave intelligence failure” and claimed that the Home Ministry had denied a request for aircraft to transport CRPF personnel, forcing them to travel by road.
These statements drew sharp responses from the BJP, which questioned his credibility by sharing clips of him praising the government during his tenure. Malik’s allegations also brought him closer to opposition leaders, with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi interviewing him in 2023 to discuss his claims. Despite the controversies, Malik remained unapologetic, emphasizing his commitment to speaking truth to power.
Legacy and Reflections
Satyapal Malik’s death has left a void in Indian politics, particularly among those who valued his forthrightness and dedication to social causes. His journey from a student leader to a governor of multiple states reflects his adaptability and resilience. While his tenure was marked by significant achievements, it was his willingness to challenge authority that defined his later years. Political leaders across party lines, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, expressed their condolences, acknowledging his contributions to Indian politics.
Malik’s health struggles serve as a reminder of the importance of managing chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension, which can exacerbate other illnesses. His passing also coincides with the sixth anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370, a poignant reminder of his role in one of India’s most transformative political moments. As his body is prepared for cremation at Lodhi Crematorium, the nation reflects on the life of a man who navigated the complexities of Indian politics with boldness and conviction.
In conclusion, Satyapal Malik’s cause of death was a culmination of chronic health issues, compounded by a severe urinary tract infection and subsequent complications. His legacy, however, extends far beyond his final days, encompassing a career that shaped political discourse and governance in India. His story is one of perseverance, controversy, and an unwavering commitment to his principles, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.