Mass outpouring of grief followed death of two times National Conference-MLA from Kalakote Constituency, Thakur Rashpal Singh from across the political spectrum.
Rashpal Singh, the National Conference’s prominent face from the border district of Rajouri won from Kalakote on NC ticket in 2002 and 2008, who had also served as the vice-chairman of the State Kissan Advisory Board during Omar Abdullah-led government in 2009-15.
Senior NC, leader Rattan Lal Gupta said that Rashpal Singh started his political journey with NC in 1980’s before that he was part of youth congress. He fought first election from Nowshera constituency in 1983 and lost.
“He was most secular and most popular leader among people in both districts of Rajouri and Poonch. His friendly nature gave him more popularity among masses. He also served on different posts of party such as State Central Labour Union President to Vice President Jammu province and many more.” Gupta said.
National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah and Vice President Omar Abdullah expressed shock and grief over the passing away of former MLA and describing the death as a great loss to the party.
“Thakur Rachpal Singh ji will always be remembered for his tireless contribution in ameliorating the lot of peasants, labour fraternity, weaker sections and downtrodden people of Jammu and Kashmir in general and Rajouri-Poonch belt in particular”, Dr Farooq Abdullah said in a message, adding that his selfless service will remain guiding force and inspiration for younger generation of National Conference cadres. In his death, the party has lost a dedicated, sincere and hardworking leader whose role in strengthening the bonds of amity and brotherhood between various segments of society,” he added.
NC Vice President, Omar Abdullah expressed grief over the death of a senior colleague from Kalakote Rajouri, saying, “Only yesterday, I spoke to him (Th Rachpal Singh) to wish him well. He was on oxygen support but in good spirits. Less than 24 hours later he is no more. My prayers are with his family”.
NC Provincial President, Devender Singh Rana remembered Th Rachpal Singh for his qualities of head and heart, saying public good was the mission of his life. He recalled his services to the people of Jammu and Kashmir in general and Rajouri district in particular, saying his departure has left a big vacuum in the party which is hard to be filled.
“Heartfelt condolences on the sad demise of former VC, Kissan Advisory Board & former MLA, Th Rachpal Singh. I pray for eternal peace to the departed soul & courage to the bereaved family to bear the loss.” Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir tweeted.
J&K BJP president Ravinder Raina in a tweet said “He was saddened to hear the news about the death of Singh and noted that he was a courageous leader who served the people with utmost sincerity.”
While, Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee and Jammu and Kashmir National panthers party paid rich tributes to the prominent political figure and recalled his contribution to the society as a whole.