Fri Nov 01 18:12:52 UTC 2024: ## Devender Singh Rana, BJP MLA from Jammu and Kashmir, Passes Away at 59

**Jammu, October 26, 2023:** Devender Singh Rana, the sitting BJP MLA from the Nagrota Assembly constituency in Jammu and Kashmir, passed away on Thursday at the age of 59. The businessman-turned-politician was undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Faridabad, Haryana, and is survived by his wife, Gunjan Rana, and their children.

Rana, a prominent voice for Jammu’s Dogra community, was recently re-elected to the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly from the Nagrota segment, securing the seat for a second term. He was the brother of Union Minister Jitendra Singh.

His death has sent shockwaves through the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. Hundreds of people, including political leaders, gathered at his residence in Jammu to pay their respects.

Rana, a former trusted lieutenant of National Conference leader Omar Abdullah, began his political career with the NC, becoming a key strategist and advisor. He played a significant role in expanding the party’s base in Jammu as its Provincial President.

After a successful career as an entrepreneur, he entered politics and won the Nagrota assembly seat for the NC in his debut bid, defeating the BJP’s Jugal Kishore Sharma. This victory highlighted his ability to connect with diverse voter bases.

Following the abrogation of Article 370, Rana became a vocal advocate for the Jammu Declaration, which called for the restoration of statehood specifically for the Jammu region. This stance led to a clash with the People’s Alliance for Gupkar Declaration, a coalition seeking the restoration of Article 370 and statehood for the entire Jammu and Kashmir region.

In October 2021, after more than two decades with the NC, Rana resigned and joined the BJP. His deep roots in the Jammu region and close connections with local communities made him a prominent figure in J&K politics, particularly for the BJP.

Political leaders across the spectrum expressed their grief and offered condolences to Rana’s family. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti, and other prominent figures from various parties paid tribute to the departed leader.

Rana’s demise is considered a significant loss for the BJP and the people of Jammu and Kashmir. His contributions to society and his dedication to the region will be remembered.

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