Fri Dec 20 14:22:47 UTC 2024: ## Former Haryana Chief Minister Om Prakash Chautala Passes Away at 89
**Gurugram, Haryana:** Om Prakash Chautala, former Chief Minister of Haryana, passed away Friday at the age of 89 at his residence in Gurugram. His death marks the end of a long and influential political career.
Chautala, born on January 1, 1935, in Sirsa, Haryana, entered politics following in the footsteps of his father, Chaudhary Devi Lal, who served as Deputy Prime Minister of India. He quickly established himself as a prominent figure, particularly among the farming community. His political career was closely tied to the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD), a party founded by his father after a split within the Janata Dal in 1996. The INLD, known for its strong base among farmers, benefited significantly from Chautala’s leadership and his image as a grassroots leader.
Chautala served as Chief Minister of Haryana on five occasions. His first term was brief, lasting from December 2, 1989, to May 22, 1990. He later returned to power in 1999, serving until 2005, with the support of the BJP.
His sons, Ajay Chautala and Abhay Chautala, also followed him into politics, with Abhay Chautala being more actively involved in current political affairs. Chautala’s legacy is one of significant influence within Haryana’s political landscape, particularly his connections to the farming community. His passing marks a significant moment in Haryana’s political history.
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