Sriprakash Jaiswal, Veteran Congress Leader and Former Union Minister, Dies at 81

Sriprakash Jaiswal, a prominent Congress leader and former Union minister, died at 81 in Kanpur due to cardiac arrest. He held significant positions in the UPA government and was known for his dedication to public service.

Sriprakash Jaiswal, a former Union minister and veteran Congress leader, passed away in Kanpur on Friday due to a cardiac arrest. He was 81 years old. Initially taken to a nursing home in Kidwai Nagar as his condition worsened, he was later moved to the Cardiology Hospital, where doctors declared him dead upon arrival.

Jaiswal's political career was marked by significant roles in the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government led by Manmohan Singh. He served as the minister of state for home affairs from 2004 to 2009 and later managed the coal ministry from January 2011 to May 2014. Before joining the Union Cabinet, he led the Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee (UPCC) between 2000 and 2002.

Political Legacy and Contributions

Born in Kanpur in 1944 to Ganga Prasad Jaiswal and Chandrakali Devi, Sriprakash Jaiswal maintained strong ties with his hometown throughout his life. His political journey began early when he was elected mayor of Kanpur in 1989. He later became a member of the Lok Sabha, representing Kanpur in 1999, and retained his seat in 2004 and 2009.

Jaiswal's influence extended beyond politics; he played a crucial role during the attacks on Indian students in Australia in 2009. By visiting Melbourne to assess the situation, he brought international attention to the issue, visiting hospitals, temples, and public transport systems.

Condolences from Political Leaders

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge expressed deep sorrow over Jaiswal's death, describing him as a dedicated Congressman who worked tirelessly for Kanpur's development. "His departure is a big loss for the Congress," Kharge stated on X.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also mourned Jaiswal's passing. In a post on X, he said, "The passing of former Union minister and senior politician Sriprakash Jaiswal is deeply saddening. Humble tributes to him! I pray to Lord Shri Ram to grant the departed soul a place in his feet and grant the bereaved family the strength to bear this immense loss. Om Shanti!"

Ajay Rai, chief of Uttar Pradesh Congress, remarked on Jaiswal's lasting impact on Kanpur and Uttar Pradesh politics. "He will always be remembered as our elder brother, a simple and down-to-earth leader," Rai said.

Personal Life and Family

Jaiswal married Maya Rani Jaiswal in 1967 and is survived by two sons, a daughter, and two grandchildren. His family was present during his final moments. Despite losing his Lok Sabha seat in 2014, he remained active in Kanpur's political scene until his death.

Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak also expressed their condolences. Maurya said, "May Lord Shri Ram grant the departed soul a place in his feet and provide strength to the bereaved family during this difficult time." Pathak added similar sentiments: "I pray to Lord Shri Ram to grant the virtuous soul a place in his feet and provide strength to the bereaved family."

A Lasting Impact

Akhilesh Yadav of the Samajwadi Party shared his condolences on X: "Former Union minister Sriprakash Jaiswal has passed away, deeply saddening! May his soul rest in peace." Har Prakash Agnihotri highlighted Jaiswal's influence over Kanpur's political landscape for over three decades.

Pawan Gupta, Congress city president, noted that Jaiswal was one of Uttar Pradesh's most influential Congress leaders. Even after losing his seat in 2014, he continued contributing to Kanpur's social life.

With inputs from PTI