Fri Nov 01 15:20:13 UTC 2024: ## BJP MLA Devender Singh Rana Passes Away at 59

**Jammu, India** – Devender Singh Rana, a BJP MLA from Jammu and Kashmir and brother of Union Minister Jitendra Singh, passed away on Thursday at a hospital in Faridabad after a prolonged illness. He was 59. Rana was recently re-elected to the Nagrota Assembly seat in Jammu, representing the influential Dogra community.

Rana, a prominent figure in Jammu and Kashmir’s political landscape, had a diverse career, spanning business and politics. He began his political journey as a trusted lieutenant of former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, serving within the National Conference for over two decades. In 2021, he switched allegiances, joining the BJP.

Tributes poured in from across the political spectrum, reflecting Rana’s influence. Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his shock and sorrow, remembering their shared history and highlighting Rana’s “excellent work” together. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, calling Rana a “patriotic and widely respected leader,” extended condolences to his family.

PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti, while expressing her shock, acknowledged Rana’s prominent position in J&K politics.

Rana’s sudden passing has left a void in the BJP and among his supporters. Former Vice-Chancellor of Jammu University, Amitabh Mattoo, highlighted Rana’s “remarkable entrepreneurial and political” skills, emphasizing his once close relationship with Omar Abdullah.

Rana secured a second term at Nagrota in the recent Assembly elections, securing the highest winning margin of 30,472 votes. He is survived by his wife, two daughters, and a son.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh has reached Jammu following the news of his brother’s demise. Rana’s body is expected to arrive in the city for the last rites on Friday.

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