"His greatness still permeates Delhi like fragrance": Delhi Minister Sirsa on Sahib Singh Verma's death anniversary
New Delhi, June 30
Delhi Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa on Tuesday paid tribute to former Delhi Chief Minister Sahib Singh Verma on his death anniversary, describing him as a visionary leader whose contributions to the Capital's Metro network, educational institutions, hospitals and rural infrastructure continue to shape Delhi's development.
"He served Delhi with the same purity and devotion with which a son serves his mother. The Metro system we see in Delhi today, the community centres and hospitals in every village, and the schools, colleges, and universities he established he was truly a visionary leader of an era. His greatness still permeates Delhi like a fragrance. That is why, on his death anniversary, people from every corner--from the rural areas and across the city come to pay their respects," Sirsa told reporters.
BJP MP Manoj Tiwari also paid homage to the former Chief Minister and said the development witnessed by Delhi during Verma's tenure continues to be regarded as exemplary.
"The development Delhi witnessed and the sense of self-confidence instilled in the city under his leadership--specifically during his tenure as Chief Minister--remain exemplary to this day. People from across Delhi gather at his memorial on this day. The sheer number of people who come here bears witness to the special place Sahib Singh Verma holds in the hearts of the people of Delhi and the nation," he told reporters.
Born in a farmer's family at Mundka Village in Delhi on March 15, 1943, Sahib Singh Verma began his political career as an RSS worker.
He was elected to the Delhi Municipal Corporation on a Janata Party ticket in 1997. He was re-elected in 1983 on a BJP Ticket.
Sahib Singh was made Education & Development Minister in the Delhi Government in 1993 after winning the Assembly elections. He became Chief Minister of Delhi in 1996 and continued in this post for more than two and a half years. Sahib Singh holds a Doctorate Degree in Library Sciences.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Interesting to see how Indian politicians are revered long after their tenure. The Metro system he initiated is world-class and has transformed commuting in Delhi. However, I would like to see more measurable outcomes on education and healthcare quality beyond just building infrastructure. Still, respect for the vision.
Such a humble background - from a farmer's family to Chief Minister! And he had a doctorate in Library Sciences, that's so inspiring for students. The fact that people from all villages still come to pay respects shows his connection with the common man. Delhi needs more leaders like him who work for all sections, not just the elite.
While I appreciate the tribute, one must also critically assess governance records. The Metro has been great, yes, but Delhi's air quality and water issues remain severe. We need to honor past leaders but also demand accountability from current ones. Still, Verma ji's contributions to rural Delhi are undeniable - those community centres are a lifeline for many villages even today.
It's remarkable that a man from a simple farming background became Chief Minister and left such a lasting legacy. The phrase "his greatness permeates like fragrance" beautifully captures how his work continues to touch lives. I hope current leaders learn from his approach of inclusive development, especially for rural areas.
Sahib Singh ji was a gem. His work on the Metro is legendary - it's the lifeline of Delhi today. And the way he empowered rural areas with schools and hospitals shows he never forgot his roots. Would love to see more leaders with such grassroots connect. RIP sir, your vision keeps Delhi moving! 🚇
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