A wave of grief spread across Himachal Pradesh political circles following the sudden passing of Bharatiya Janata Party leader Rakesh Chauhan from Shahpur in Kangra district. The senior party functionary suffered a fatal heart attack and breathed his last while being rushed to medical care, marking another solemn loss for the hill state within two days.
Sudden Cardiac Attack on November 4 Morning
The tragedy took place in the early hours of November 4, at around 6:45 AM, when Rakesh Chauhan experienced acute chest discomfort and suffered a cardiac arrest. In an urgent effort to save his life, his son immediately moved him toward a medical facility for emergency treatment. However, his condition worsened during transit, and he unfortunately passed away before reaching the hospital.
Dedicated Organizational Career and Roles in Kangra
A resident of Shahpur who was fondly called Pinka by close associates and colleagues, Rakesh Chauhan was serving as the co-convenor of the BJP sports cell. Over the years, he had built a reputation as an active and disciplined party worker, having previously served as the district general secretary for the BJP in Kangra. His dedication to grass-roots mobilization and sports initiatives made him a widely respected organizational figure in the region.
Condolences from Leaders and Community Members
Former Nagrota BJP MLA Arun Kumar Kuka Mehra expressed deep sorrow over Chauhan's untimely demise, describing him as a devoted and hard-working colleague whose departure leaves an irreplaceable void in the party organization. Arun Mehra extended heartfelt prayers and solidarity to the grieving family. Rajendra Manhas, district president of the New Pension Scheme Association in Kangra, also paid tribute, highlighting Chauhan's strong social ties and noting that the people of Shahpur would always remember him.
Second Political Loss for the State Within Twenty-Four Hours
Chauhan's death follows the demise of Congress legislator Nand Lal, who represented the Rampur constituency in Shimla district. Nand Lal passed away on November 3 in Shimla after battling cancer and renal illness. His final rites were scheduled at his native Devthi village in Rampur, with Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu attending the ceremony. The successive deaths of two notable political figures in such short order have left the entire state mourning.
