Vijay Kumar Malhotra Dies at 94: Delhi BJP Mourns Stalwart

Veteran Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) stalwart Vijay Kumar Malhotra died on September 30, 2025, in New Delhi at the age of 94, prompting tributes from national leaders and marking the end of an era in Delhi politics.

Key Facts

On Tuesday morning, September 30, Malhotra passed away at AIIMS Delhi after a brief illness, confirmed by the hospital and Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva. A five-time Member of Parliament (MP) and two-time Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) in Delhi, Malhotra was the first president of the BJP’s Delhi unit and defeated former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in the 1999 South Delhi Lok Sabha election.

Notable quotes:

• Virendra Sachdeva: “His life was an example of simplicity and public service.”
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi: “Shri Vijay Kumar Malhotra Ji distinguished himself as an outstanding leader with a deep understanding of people’s issues. Pained by his passing away. Om Shanti.”
• Delhi CM Rekha Gupta: “His death is an extremely painful and irreparable loss to the BJP family and society at large.”

Background

Born December 3, 1931, in Lahore (now Pakistan), Malhotra migrated to Delhi after Partition. He rose through the Jana Sangh ranks, serving as Delhi Pradesh Jana Sangh president (1972–75) before leading the newly formed Delhi BJP (1977–84). Widely respected for his organizational skills, he held roles including Leader of Opposition in Delhi Assembly (2008–13) and served in sports administration, notably as acting IOA president (2011–12) and long-time Archery Association head.

Official Statements

• PM Narendra Modi: Lauded Malhotra’s parliamentary interventions and role in strengthening the BJP in Delhi, offering condolences to his family.
• Delhi CM Rekha Gupta: Praised his patriotism and discipline, noting his guidance of countless party workers.
• Union Home Minister Amit Shah: Called his loss irreparable, recalling Malhotra’s integrity and loyalty from Jana Sangh to BJP.
• BJP President J.P. Nadda: Described Malhotra’s life as marked by simplicity and unwavering dedication to party expansion in Delhi.

Reactions

Leaders across party lines paid tribute, with Congress figures acknowledging his moderation and constructive parliamentary role. Sports bodies mourned his contributions to Indian archery’s rise. Civil society noted his reputation for clean politics and grass-roots connect.

Impact

Malhotra’s passing leaves a leadership void in Delhi BJP’s elder statesman cohort. His death prompted cancellation of Delhi government events and flagging of AIIMS, reflecting his stature. The party plans a state funeral and installation of his portrait at the Delhi BJP headquarters on DDU Marg—a milestone he had long envisioned.

Global/Geopolitical Angle

While a domestic figure, Malhotra’s career spanned India’s post-independence nation-building era. His experience in parliamentary debates on foreign policy and clean governance contributed to India’s democratic consolidation, often cited by international democratic institutions studying India’s legislative evolution.

FAQs

1. Who was Vijay Kumar Malhotra?

Vijay Kumar Malhotra was a veteran BJP leader, the first president of the party’s Delhi unit, and a five-time Member of Parliament. He played a key role in shaping Delhi’s political landscape and also served in sports administration.

2. When and where did Vijay Kumar Malhotra pass away?

He passed away on September 30, 2025, at AIIMS Delhi after a brief illness.

3. How old was Vijay Kumar Malhotra at the time of his death?

He was 94 years old.

4. What are some of Vijay Kumar Malhotra’s major political achievements?

He defeated former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in the 1999 South Delhi Lok Sabha elections, served as Delhi BJP’s first president, and held important positions like Leader of Opposition in the Delhi Assembly.

5. Did Vijay Kumar Malhotra contribute outside politics?

Yes, he made significant contributions to Indian sports administration, serving as the acting president of the Indian Olympic Association (2011–12) and heading the Archery Association of India for decades.

6. What did PM Modi and other leaders say about his death?

PM Modi, Amit Shah, J.P. Nadda, and Delhi CM Rekha Gupta described his passing as an irreparable loss, praising his simplicity, integrity, and contributions to both party and society.

7. Will Vijay Kumar Malhotra be given a state funeral?

Yes, the BJP has announced plans for a state funeral, along with installing his portrait at the Delhi BJP headquarters.

8. What is Vijay Kumar Malhotra’s legacy in Delhi politics?

He is remembered as a pioneer of BJP’s growth in Delhi, respected across party lines for his clean image, grassroots connection, and guidance to generations of party workers.

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