Prof. Vijay Kumar Malhotra, a stalwart of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and a towering figure in Delhi’s political landscape, passed away at the age of 93 on Tuesday morning.
The Delhi BJP confirmed his demise, stating that he had been undergoing treatment at AIIMS for several days.
Malhotra’s political journey spanned decades, beginning with the Jan Sangh era and culminating in his role as the first president of the BJP’s Delhi unit. Known for his simplicity and unwavering dedication to public service, he served as a five-time Member of Parliament and twice as an MLA. He also held the position of Delhi’s chief executive councillor, a role equivalent to today’s chief minister.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Malhotra on X (formerly Twitter), calling him an “outstanding leader” with a deep understanding of public issues. “He played a vital role in strengthening our Party in Delhi. He is also remembered for his Parliamentary interventions. Pained by his passing away. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti,” the PM wrote.
Malhotra’s death comes just a day after PM Modi inaugurated the BJP’s first permanent state office in Delhi—an initiative Malhotra had long envisioned. His mortal remains will be brought to his official residence at Gurdwara Rakabganj Road for party workers and admirers to pay their last respects.
