Satyapal Malik: A Veteran Statesman in Indian Politics
Satyapal Malik was a prominent Indian politician and administrator whose career spanned over five decades, marked by significant roles in both legislative and executive branches of governance. From his early days as a student leader in Uttar Pradesh to holding the gubernatorial posts in five Indian states, including Jammu & Kashmir during its most sensitive political transition, Malik remained a figure of both authority and controversy. Known for his candid views and bold stance on national issues, he carved a unique space for himself in Indian politics, often challenging the status quo even while holding high constitutional offices.
Birth & Early Life
Born on July 24, 1946, in Hisawada village, Baghpat district of Uttar Pradesh, Malik hailed from a Jat farming background. A student leader at Meerut College, he earned degrees in science, law, and parliamentary affairs, marking the start of his political journey
Political Rise
Malik entered electoral politics in 1974, winning the Baghpat seat on Chaudhary Charan Singh’s Bharatiya Kranti Dal ticket. He later served in the Rajya Sabha (1980–89) and was elected to the Lok Sabha from Aligarh in 1989, representing Janata Dal. During VP Singh’s government, he held ministerial roles in parliamentary affairs and tourism
Governorships Across States
His gubernatorial tenure spanned five states:
Later Years & Controversies
Deeply principled and outspoken, Malik frequently criticized the central government, especially during the farmers’ protests and on issues around governance. In a widely discussed interview, he alleged lapses in handling the Pulwama attack, claiming he was told by PM Modi and NSA Ajit Doval to stay silent—a claim that stirred considerable public debate
Passing & Legacy
Malik was admitted to Delhi’s Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital on May 11, 2025, with kidney-related health issues and complications including septic shock and multi-organ dysfunction. He passed away on August 5, 2025, at 1:10 PM at the age of 79 after a prolonged illness
🕊️ Key Highlights Timeline
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Governor of Bihar (Sept 2017 – Aug 2018)
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Additional charge of Odisha (March – May 2018)
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Governor of Jammu & Kashmir (Aug 2018 – Oct 2019): Oversaw the abrogation of Article 370 and the region's transition into two Union Territories
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Later served as Governor of Goa (Nov 2019 – Aug 2020) and Meghalaya (Aug 2020 – Oct 2022)
In May 2025, the CBI filed a chargesheet against him linked to alleged corruption in the Kiru Hydropower Project, underscoring a controversial chapter in his career
His decades-long political journey—spanning tumultuous policy shifts, state administration, and fearless commentary—made him both revered and controversial, leaving an indelible mark on India’s political landscape
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Entered politics: 1974, MLA from Baghpat
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Rajya Sabha tenure: 1980–89
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Lok Sabha MP: 1989–91
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Held governorships: Bihar → Odisha (additional) → J&K → Goa → Meghalaya
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Oversaw abrogation of Article 370 in Aug 2019
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Vocal critic of central government policies post-tenure
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CBI charge sheeted in 2025
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Passed away: August 5, 2025, at RML Hospital, New Delhi