Former Chief Election Commissioner MS Gill Passes Away at 86; Nation Mourns the Loss

New Delhi- Former Chief Election Commissioner Manohar Singh Gill, aged 86, passed away on Sunday after a brief illness, leaving the nation in sorrow.

Gill, a distinguished former bureaucrat, served as the Chief Election Commissioner from December 1996 to June 2001, a pivotal period in the electoral history of India. He played a significant role in transforming the Election Commission into a multi-member body during his tenure.

Hailing from a background deeply entrenched in public service, Gill began his career under the guidance of Parkash Singh Badal, the Shiromani Akali Dal patriarch and Punjab's chief minister at that time. He later ventured into politics and became a member of the Rajya Sabha, representing the Congress party. In 2008, he assumed the role of Union Sports Minister.

A man of influence and dedication, Gill contributed substantially to various sectors, including sports, electoral processes, and agriculture, earning him recognition and respect across the nation. His demise has left a void that will be hard to fill.

Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge and former Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh expressed their condolences, highlighting Gill's lasting contributions to the nation and expressing prayers for his eternal peace.

The nation mourns the loss of a visionary leader and extends heartfelt sympathies to Gill's family, friends, and admirers. May his soul rest in peace.