DH NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Oct 17
Former Jammu and Kashmir Minister and President of Dogra Sadar Sabha J&K, Thakur Gulchain Singh Charak passed away today after a prolonged illness.
Born in 1942 in a martial Kshatriya Charak clan of Jammu, Thakur Gulchain Singh Charak hailed from a family with a long tradition of service to the nation — his father, Thakur Maluk Singh Charak, had a distinguished career in the Indian Army.
From his student days, Thakur Gulchain Singh Charak displayed a secular outlook, deep-rooted belief in communal harmony, brotherhood, and compassion for the underprivileged. An active student leader, he often represented the genuine aspirations of students before authorities. Excelling in sports and NCC, he earned the prestigious ‘C’ Certificate and, as a civil defence volunteer, once captured an armed Pakistani paratrooper unarmed, showcasing rare courage and patriotism.
A man powered by intellect and driven by values, Thakur Gulchain Singh Charak believed that “if it can be imagined, it can be done.” His dynamic approach to administration blended innovation and adaptability, reflecting his belief that possibilities are limitless in an ever-evolving world. Known for his tireless work ethic, he was capable of working round the clock, ensuring efficiency and results in challenging political and bureaucratic environments.
A senior leader of the Congress Party, Thakur Gulchain Singh Charak served as Minister for PWD, Mechanical Engineering, Higher Education, ARI & Trainings in the PDP–Congress coalition government under Ghulam Nabi Azad. He also held key organizational roles, including Member of the Congress Working Committee (CWC) and in-charge of several important states.
Beyond politics, he was a renowned social activist, leading various secular and social organizations and serving as President of Dogra Sadar Sabha J&K, where he
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worked relentlessly for the preservation of Dogra heritage and culture.
His demise has been widely mourned across political and social circles, with many recalling him as a visionary leader, tireless administrator, and true son of the soil who dedicated his life to the cause of Jammu’s development and the unity of society.
