Satyapal Malik Death: The nation woke up to somber news on August 5, 2025, as Satyapal Malik, the former Governor of Jammu and Kashmir and a veteran politician, passed away at the age of 79 in Delhi’s Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital. His death marks the end of a remarkable and often controversial political career that spanned over five decades. Known for his outspoken nature and unwavering commitment to his principles, Malik leaves behind a legacy that is both inspiring and polarizing. As we reflect on his life, let’s explore his journey, contributions, and the impact he had on Indian politics.
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A Humble Beginning and Rise in Politics
Satyapal Malik’s story began in the village of Hisawada in Uttar Pradesh’s Baghpat district, where he was born on July 24, 1946, into a Jat family. His early life was rooted in simplicity, but his ambition and drive were evident from a young age. Malik’s political journey kicked off in the late 1960s when he became the president of the Students’ Union at Meerut College, where he earned degrees in science and law. This early exposure to leadership set the stage for a career that would see him navigate the complex world of Indian politics.
- Early Political Steps: Elected as an MLA in 1974 on the Bharatiya Kranti Dal ticket, aligned with Chaudhary Charan Singh.
- Parliamentary Presence: Represented Uttar Pradesh in the Rajya Sabha from 1980 to 1986 and later as a Lok Sabha MP from Aligarh (1989–1991) with the Janata Dal.
- Party Shifts: Over the years, Malik associated with multiple parties, including Congress, Lok Dal, Samajwadi Party, and later the BJP, showcasing his adaptability in a dynamic political landscape.
Malik’s ability to connect with people, especially his Jat and farmer base, made him a significant figure in Uttar Pradesh politics before he took on larger roles.
Governorship Across States
Malik’s career as a governor began in 2017 when he was appointed the Governor of Bihar. His tenure in various states, including Odisha (additional charge), Jammu and Kashmir, Goa, and Meghalaya, showcased his versatility and resilience. However, it was his time as the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir from August 2018 to October 2019 that brought him into the national spotlight.
- Jammu and Kashmir Tenure: Malik was at the helm during the historic abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019, which revoked the special status of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated the state into two Union Territories.
- Other Governorships: After Jammu and Kashmir, he served as Governor of Goa (2019–2020) and Meghalaya until October 2022, earning respect for his administrative acumen.
His governorships were not without challenges, as he often found himself at odds with the central government, particularly over issues like corruption and governance.
A Voice for Farmers and Controversy
Satyapal Malik was never one to shy away from speaking his mind, even when it meant confronting those in power. His vocal support for the farmers’ protests against the now-scrapped farm laws in 2020–2021 marked a turning point in his relationship with the BJP-led central government. Malik’s criticism of the government’s handling of the protests, including the lack of condolences for farmers who lost their lives, resonated with many but also drew ire from his former allies.
- Farmers’ Advocate: Malik warned the government about alienating the Sikh community and stood firm in his support for farmers, earning him admiration among agrarian communities.
- Pulwama Allegations: In a 2023 interview, he made explosive claims about lapses in security that led to the 2019 Pulwama attack, alleging that the central government asked him to stay silent on the issue.
- Kiru Hydropower Case: Malik flagged corruption in the ₹2,200 crore Kiru Hydro Electric Project, but in a twist, he was named in a CBI chargesheet in 2025, adding to his controversial image.
His outspokenness often put him at odds with the establishment, but it also cemented his reputation as a politician who prioritized his principles over political expediency.
Health Struggles and Final Days
Malik’s health had been a concern for some time, with reports indicating he was battling multiple chronic conditions. Admitted to RML Hospital on May 11, 2025, with a complicated urinary tract infection, his condition deteriorated over the months. The hospital’s statement detailed his longstanding issues with diabetic kidney disease, hypertension, morbid obesity, and obstructive sleep apnea. Despite intensive medical interventions, including antibiotics, ventilatory support, and hemodialysis, Malik succumbed to refractory septic shock, hospital-acquired pneumonia, and multi-organ dysfunction on August 5, 2025, at 1:10 pm.
- Prolonged Illness: Malik’s health updates were shared on his X account, with a post in June 2025 describing his condition as “serious.”
- Final Moments: His body was taken to his residence in R K Puram, Delhi, with his cremation scheduled for August 6, 2025, at Lodhi Crematorium.
The timing of his passing, coinciding with the sixth anniversary of the Article 370 abrogation, added a poignant note to his departure.
A Legacy of Courage and Contradiction
Satyapal Malik’s life was a tapestry of courage, controversy, and commitment. From a student leader to a governor of multiple states, his journey was marked by a willingness to challenge the status quo. His support for farmers and his bold allegations against the government made him a polarizing figure, admired by some as a truth-teller and criticized by others as a political opportunist. Leaders across the political spectrum, including Congress’s Priyanka Gandhi and West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee, paid tributes, with Banerjee noting his bravery in speaking “unpleasant truths” about the Pulwama attack.
- Tributes Pour In: Political figures like Rahul Gandhi and Jayant Chaudhary highlighted Malik’s contributions to public life and his roots in student politics.
- A Mixed Legacy: While some celebrated his fearlessness, others pointed to his party-switching and controversies as evidence of a complex persona.
Malik’s death leaves behind a void in Indian politics, particularly among those who valued his candid voice. His net worth, as per a 2004 election affidavit, was modest at ₹76 lakh, reflecting a life less focused on personal wealth and more on public service, albeit with its share of turbulence.
As we bid farewell to Satyapal Malik, we remember a man who navigated the highs and lows of Indian politics with a distinctive blend of grit and conviction. His story reminds us that true leadership often comes with the courage to speak out, even when the cost is high. Rest in peace, Satyapal Malik—your voice will echo in the corridors of history.
Sources: The Hindu, Indian Express, News18, Times of India, Business Standard