Jammu and Kashmir Mourns Devender Singh Rana’s Sudden Demise: Condolences Pour In
Jammu, Nov 1: Devender Singh Rana, senior BJP leader and MLA representing the Nagrota constituency, passed away on Thursday at a private hospital in Faridabad, Haryana. The 59-year-old leader was the younger brother of Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh. He is survived by his wife, Gunjan Rana, two daughters, Devyani and Ketki, and a son, Adhiraj Singh.
News of Rana’s death prompted an outpouring of grief, with hundreds of mourners, including political leaders and supporters, gathering at his residence in Jammu’s Gandhinagar area. Dr. Jitendra Singh, deeply affected by his brother’s passing, arrived at the residence to be with his family and pay his respects.
Rana, who transitioned from a successful business career to politics, was known as a strong advocate for Jammu’s Dogra community and was deeply respected for his dedication to the region. He was recently re-elected to the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, marking his second consecutive term representing Nagrota.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed his sorrow over the untimely demise. “In his passing, we have lost a patriotic and widely respected leader committed to the well-being of J&K’s people. I extend my deepest condolences to his family. Om Shanti,” the LG’s office posted on X.
J&K Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary also shared his grief. “This news is especially disheartening on an auspicious day (Diwali). My condolences to his family and PMO @DrJitendraSingh ji on this loss. Om Shanti,” he posted on X.
PDP President and former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti extended her condolences, expressing shock at Rana’s sudden passing. “Deepest condolences to his family and loved ones,” Mufti wrote on X.
Senior BJP leaders and members of other parties, including Congress National General Secretary Ghulam Ahmed Mir, expressed deep sorrow, acknowledging Rana’s contributions to both the party and the people of J&K.
Rana’s political journey began with the National Conference (NC), where he rose through the ranks as a key strategist and advisor to Omar Abdullah during his tenure as J&K’s Chief Minister. Known for his deep connections with local communities, including the Gujjar community, Rana held significant influence among diverse voter bases.
His career shifted in October 2021 when he left the NC after over two decades, joining the BJP. With his profound knowledge of the region and advocacy for Jammu’s unique identity, Rana championed the “Jammu Declaration,” which called for a distinct identity for Jammu, marking a unique stance amidst other J&K political discourse.
Rana’s background as an entrepreneur who established the Jamkash Vehicleades Group—a multi-crore enterprise—reflects his resilience and business acumen. Born into a Dogra family from Doda district, he initially pursued a career in civil engineering before making his mark as a successful business leader.
As tributes pour in, leaders from various political affiliations, including Sajad Lone, Junaid Matoo, Sunil Sharma, Tarun Chugh, Sham Lal Sharma, and Choudhary Zulfikar Ali, have acknowledged his service, commitment, and legacy.
Devender Singh Rana’s passing marks a significant loss for J&K’s political landscape. His vision, advocacy for Jammu, and dedication to the welfare of its people will be remembered.
