Senior Shiromani Akali Dal leader and former minister Jathedar Randhir Singh Cheema died on Tuesday at the age of 97. He was ill for the last several days. Cheema has been active in Punjab politics for a long time and has been a cabinet minister in the state government thrice. He is especially remembered as the Road Minister of Punjab. The minister was also known for his humble nature and simple life.
Last rites will be performed in native village
His last rites will be performed in his native village Karimpura. Cheema was a close associate of former Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal and was a member of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee continuously since 1965. His death has dealt a major blow to the Akali Dal. Senior Akali leaders including party president Sukhbir Singh Badal have expressed their condolences in this hour of grief.
Journey from MLA to minister
Randhir Singh Cheema first became an MLA from Sirhind assembly constituency. After winning from this area, he got the post of minister. Recently on 9 March 2024 in Fatehgarh Sahib, Cheema had protested against the decision of the SGPC internal committee to remove the Jathedars.