New Delhi – The passing of VK Malhotra, veteran leader and five-time Member of Parliament, marks the end of an era in Delhi’s political history. At 94, he left behind a towering legacy as the founding president of the Delhi BJP, a seasoned academic, and a leader known for honesty, discipline, and foresight. He had been under treatment at AIIMS for age-related ailments before his demise.
Tributes from National Leaders
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid rich tributes to VK Malhotra, recalling his outstanding leadership and deep understanding of people’s issues. Modi said Malhotra strengthened the party in Delhi and would be remembered for his impactful parliamentary contributions. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh echoed the sentiment, describing him as a stalwart of the Jana Sangh and BJP. Singh noted that VK Malhotra was widely respected for his knowledge of the Constitution and tireless work for the people.
Early Life and Entry into Politics
Born in Lahore, VK Malhotra began his public life as a municipal councillor in the late 1950s. His journey spanned over six decades, beginning with the Jana Sangh, where he honed his political skills, and later emerging as a central pillar of the BJP in Delhi. In 1967, at just 36 years old, he became Delhi’s first chief executive councillor, setting the tone for modern governance in the capital.
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A Visionary Administrator
As chief executive councillor, VK Malhotra envisioned infrastructural and urban development that was ahead of its time. His push for the city’s first flyovers, systematic beautification of the Yamuna, and structured urban growth reflected clarity in governance and foresight. His ideas, once considered ambitious, later became essential elements of Delhi’s identity as the national capital.
Academic Contributions
Beyond politics, VK Malhotra was deeply rooted in academia. He taught at PGDAV College for nearly 36 years, bringing academic discipline into his political journey. His dual role as an educator and a politician gave him a unique perspective, enabling him to connect with young minds while shaping Delhi’s policies.
Expanding Delhi’s Education Landscape
During his tenure, Delhi University witnessed the opening of 16 new colleges. Many institutions, such as Gargi College, Mata Sundri College, Maitreyi College, and Jesus and Mary College, were dedicated to women’s education. Others, including Bhagat Singh College, Vivekananda College, and Kalindi College, broadened the city’s academic landscape. According to colleagues, this expansion spearheaded by VK Malhotra laid the foundation for Delhi’s emergence as a hub of higher learning.
Political Milestones and Achievements
A swayamsevak since his student days, VK Malhotra rose through the ranks of the Jana Sangh. He later emerged as one of the three central figures of the BJP in Delhi, alongside Madan Lal Khurana and Sahib Singh Verma. Together, the trio transformed the BJP into a formidable political alternative to the Congress in the capital.
In a defining political moment, VK Malhotra defeated future Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in the 1999 Lok Sabha elections. His reputation for clean campaigning and organisational discipline earned him admiration across party lines. He also served twice as president of the BJP’s Delhi unit and represented the capital as a two-term MLA and five-term MP.
A Reputation for Integrity
Colleagues remembered VK Malhotra as a leader of integrity, respected across the political spectrum. His clean image, focus on issues, and commitment to discipline made him stand out in Delhi’s competitive political environment. His long parliamentary career was marked by insightful interventions and constructive participation.
Contributions to Sports Administration
Adding another dimension to his career, VK Malhotra also served as president of the All India Council of Sports. His tenure reflected his drive to bring professionalism and structure to sports administration, reinforcing his image as a versatile and effective leader.
Legacy of Leadership
The legacy of VK Malhotra lies in his multifaceted contributions—political, academic, and administrative. His vision for urban development, commitment to education, and leadership within the BJP shaped Delhi’s evolution as a modern capital. His passing marks the loss of a leader who was not only part of history but actively shaped it.
