Vice President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, along with his wife Dr. Sudesh Dhankhar, visited Teja Kheda Farm in Chautala, Sirsa district, on Saturday to attend the last rites of former Haryana Chief Minister, Chaudhary Om Prakash Chautala. The couple paid their respects to the late leader’s mortal remains.
During the ceremony, Vice President Shri Dhankhar fondly reflected on his personal relationship with Chaudhary Om Prakash Chautala. “I had spoken to Chaudhary Sahab only five days ago. He expressed concern about my health, which deeply touched me,” he said. He continued, “It was 29 years ago, with the blessings of Tau Devi Lal, that Chaudhary sahab took me under his wing, helped me get elected to the 9th Lok Sabha, and appointed me as a Minister.
I will never forget his support. I always sought his blessings, especially when I became Governor.” Recalling a personal memory, Shri Dhankhar shared how Chaudhary Om Prakash Chautala, despite his prominent political career, always remained dedicated to the welfare of farmers and rural development.
“Chaudhary Sahab’s legacy is not defined by his political titles, but by his unwavering commitment to farmers and villages. He believed that the country’s progress and peace are inherently tied to rural development and agriculture,” Shri Dhankhar said.
The Vice President further reflected on Chaudhary Om Prakash Chautala’s kindness, remembering how, during a visit after his appointment as Governor, the late leader insisted on providing special laddus to soothe his sore throat. “His concern for others was extraordinary,” Shri Dhankhar recalled.
Praising the late leader’s unwavering dedication to rural welfare, Dhankhar highlighted his fearless, strong character and steadfast commitment to his ideals. “Chaudhary Sahab was a man of strong convictions, always focused on rural development. The challenges he faced and the philosophical approach he adopted remain highly relevant even today,” said Vice President Shri Dhankhar.
Concluding his tribute, Shri Dhankhar said, “Chaudhary Om Prakash Chautala taught us that the road to progress is not without obstacles, and often, our achievements may not be fully recognized. But the goal is clear—uplifting farmers and rural communities. The dream of a developed India will emerge from the fields of farmers and rural development.
His tireless service to farmers, especially his fight for loan waivers, is a testament to his unwavering dedication. He showed us that the interests of farmers are the interests of the nation, and their progress is key to the country’s prosperity.”