Jammu: Senior BJP leader and MLA Nagrota, Devinder Singh Rana passed out at a hospital at Fareedabadlate tonight.
He recently won the Nagrota seat in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly election by defeating his closest rival, Joginder Singh of the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference (JKNC), by 30,472 votes.
He won the 2014 Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly election representing the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference.
Rana once a close aide to former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and a prominent figure in the National Conference (NC), joined the BJP in New Delhi in October 2021.
While leaving NC, Rana said that his focus on the welfare of the Jammu region led to friction with the Abdullahs. He highlighted that his advocacy for the “Jammu Declaration” — a proposal emphasizing empowerment and development tailored specifically for the Jammu division — was a key point of contention, as it aimed to establish a distinct identity for Jammu.
Meanwhile, PDP president, Mehbooba Mufti condoled the demise and posted on X: “Shocked to hear about the sudden demise of Devinder Rana ji. Deepest condolences to his family & loved ones.”
NC leader and MLA Zadibal posted on X: “Shocked to hear about the sudden passing of Devender Rana ji. I had the chance to work with him and shared some good moments together. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. Rest in peace!”
Sajad Lone posts on X: Extremely sad news coming in. Devinder Singh Rana is no more. It is hard to believe that a great human being, and an even greater friend is no more. He was so full life. My thoughts with the bereaved family at this terrible, irreplaceable loss. May they muster the courage and strength to bear this loss. May the departed soul rest in peace.
Imran Raza Ansari: My heartfelt condolences to the family of Shri Devender Singh Rana Ji who passed away in Delhi this evening. He was a self made visionary businessman and a great politician. May his soul rest in peace.
