Satyapal Malik, former governor of several Indian states, has passed away in Delhi. He breathed his last at Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, where he had been undergoing treatment for a prolonged illness. Despite efforts by the medical team, his condition deteriorated, and he could not be saved.

Satyapal Malik, known for his bold political views, had served as the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Goa, and Meghalaya. His political journey spanned decades, beginning in the 1970s from student politics and eventually rising to hold key constitutional positions in the Indian governance system.

Satyapal Malik’s Political Legacy Spanned Over Five Decades

Satyapal Malik began his political journey in 1970. In 1974, he contested and won the assembly elections from Baghpat under the banner of Bhartiya Kranti Dal, a party led by Chaudhary Charan Singh. He always described himself as a follower of Chaudhary Charan Singh’s ideology and maintained his alignment with socialist politics.

His political career saw many transitions. Malik served as a Member of Parliament, held organizational responsibilities in national parties, and later served as Governor in five different Indian states between 2017 and 2022. His role as the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir was especially significant and remains a key chapter in his political legacy.

Oversaw Major Constitutional Changes During Jammu and Kashmir Tenure

Satyapal Malik was serving as the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir when the Government of India made a historic decision in August 2019. During his tenure, Article 370 was abrogated, and Ladakh was carved out as a separate Union Territory. This constitutional move brought him into national focus and also under criticism from various quarters.

Although the government’s action was supported by some, Malik’s own statements during and after the period led to political controversy. He later alleged that his tenure exposed him to deep-rooted corruption within the administration, especially related to infrastructure and energy projects.

Remained a Fierce Critic of Government Policies in Later Years

In the last few years of his public life, Satyapal Malik emerged as a strong critic of the ruling government. His statements, especially those targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, generated widespread debate. Malik was vocal in support of the farmers’ protest and traveled across several states in solidarity with the movement.

He appealed to the central government to repeal the three farm laws, and called them unjust. His outspoken support for farmers and sharp remarks against the government kept him consistently in the spotlight. He openly urged voters to support the opposition during the Lok Sabha Elections 2024, marking a strong break from his earlier association with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Satyapal Malik’s Death Confirmed Through His Official X Account

News of his death was confirmed through his official X (formerly Twitter) account. A final message was posted, announcing his passing and thanking the public for their support. His last health update was shared on July 9, 2025, by his personal aide, who stated that his condition had worsened and that he remained under critical care.

Despite being admitted for several weeks at RML Hospital, doctors could not reverse his declining health. His followers, political allies, and critics alike have expressed condolences, acknowledging his contribution to Indian public life.

Controversy Over Corruption Allegations and CBI Chargesheet

Satyapal Malik remained at the center of a controversy involving a hydropower project corruption case. He had publicly alleged large-scale irregularities in the awarding of contracts. However, in a surprising twist, the CBI filed a chargesheet against him, rather than the officials he had accused.

Even from his hospital bed, Malik expressed shock and disapproval over the development. He stated, “The person who reported the corruption is now being made the accused.” This incident added another complex layer to his already turbulent relationship with the central government.

His critics claimed that Malik was attempting to deflect from facts, while supporters viewed it as political targeting of a dissenting voice.

Remembered for His Outspokenness and Unwavering Beliefs

Satyapal Malik was not known for playing safe in politics. Even during his tenure as governor, he challenged the status quo and spoke candidly, often ruffling feathers in government and bureaucracy. His comments often crossed party lines, earning both praise and backlash.

While in office, Malik consistently projected himself as someone willing to stand against corruption, regardless of political consequences. His remarks were not confined to press conferences but also appeared in interviews, rallies, and social media posts.

He presented himself as someone who put the nation before party loyalty, and many of his supporters respected him for his boldness.

A Political Journey That Reflected India’s Evolving Landscape

Malik’s political career reflected the evolving nature of Indian politics. From his socialist roots under Chaudhary Charan Singh to his final years challenging the same government that once appointed him governor, his life was a representation of ideological shifts and personal convictions.

He served during crucial phases in India’s recent history, including constitutional amendments, regional uprisings, and national protests. Whether it was Goa, Bihar, Jammu and Kashmir, or Meghalaya, his presence was felt due to his direct manner and political visibility.

Final Years Marked by Isolation and Vocal Dissent

In his final years, Malik often remarked about feeling isolated but continued his criticism of governance failures. His comments during interviews reflected both frustration and resolve, and he claimed he had nothing to lose by speaking the truth.

In one of his final interviews, Malik said, “Whether I live or not, the truth must come out.” These words have now resurfaced across digital platforms as a symbolic reflection of his political journey.

Satyapal Malik’s death marks the end of a remarkable, turbulent, and outspoken political life. His journey from student politics to becoming the governor of five Indian states is a testament to his adaptability and resilience. Though surrounded by controversies, Malik remained firm in his stand against what he perceived as injustice.

His outspoken support for farmers, opposition to government policies, and allegations of corruption made him a unique figure in contemporary Indian politics. Whether one agreed with his views or not, Malik was undeniably a political voice that refused to be silenced.

As tributes pour in from across the political spectrum, Satyapal Malik’s life will be remembered for his unwavering opinions, independent thinking, and readiness to speak his mind, even when it cost him politically.