Sat Nov 02 06:19:24 UTC 2024: ## Veteran Jammu & Kashmir Politician Devender Singh Rana Passes Away at 59
**Jammu, India** – Devender Singh Rana, a senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and sitting MLA from the Nagrota Assembly constituency, passed away on Thursday at a private hospital in Faridabad, Haryana. He was 59.
Rana, a prominent figure in Jammu and Kashmir politics, was known for his strong voice for the Dogra community in the Jammu region. He built a successful business career in the automobile industry and later became a media baron before entering politics.
He was a close confidante of former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, but later parted ways with the National Conference. Despite this, Abdullah expressed his sorrow over Rana’s passing, remembering their shared experiences and the “fun times” they had together.
Rana’s death has sparked widespread grief and condolences from political leaders across the spectrum. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described him as a “veteran leader” who worked diligently towards the progress of Jammu and Kashmir and played a key role in strengthening the BJP in the region.
Other prominent figures, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP National President J.P. Nadda, Peoples Democratic Party chief Mehbooba Mufti, and Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee president Tariq Hameed Karra, also expressed their condolences.
Rana’s mortal remains were cremated with full state honors at Shastri Nagar cremation ground on Friday. The ceremony was attended by a large number of people, including Abdullah, Union Minister Jitendra Singh, other BJP MLAs, and politicians from various parties.
His demise is a significant loss for the BJP and the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He will be remembered for his contributions to the region and his dedication to public service.
First Piper 