Infrastructure – Former Uttarakhand Chief Minister B.C. Khanduri Given State Honours Farewell
Infrastructure – Uttarakhand on Wednesday bid an emotional farewell to former Chief Minister and retired Major General Bhuwan Chandra Khanduri, who was cremated with full state and military honours at Khadkhadi Ghat in Haridwar. The final rites marked the end of a long public life dedicated to both national service and state leadership.
Leaders Gather to Pay Final Tribute
A large number of political leaders, government officials, and citizens attended the funeral procession to honour the veteran leader. The ceremony reflected the respect Khanduri commanded across party lines because of his disciplined political career and contribution to public service.
Among the dignitaries present were Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, former Uttarakhand Chief Minister Bhagat Singh Koshyari, and Member of Parliament Anil Baluni. Several senior BJP leaders and supporters also joined the procession to offer their condolences.
Earlier in the day, thousands of people gathered at the BJP state headquarters in Dehradun to pay their last respects. The atmosphere remained sombre as supporters remembered the former army officer-turned-politician for his straightforward image and administrative discipline. Slogans praising Khanduri echoed through the crowd as people lined up for a final glimpse of the veteran leader.
Family Members Attend Last Rites
Khanduri’s daughter, Uttarakhand Assembly Speaker Ritu Khanduri Bhushan, and his son Manish Khanduri were present throughout the funeral proceedings. Family members appeared deeply emotional as the state paid tribute to one of its most recognised political figures. Later, at Haridwar, Manish Khanduri performed the last rites according to Hindu traditions.
The ceremony at Khadkhadi Ghat was conducted with military protocol, acknowledging Khanduri’s distinguished service in the Indian Army before entering public life. Security personnel and military representatives participated in the honours ceremony, underlining his contribution to the nation in both military and political capacities.
Leaders Recall His Public Service
Speaking during the funeral, Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar described Khanduri as a leader known for honesty, discipline, and simplicity. He said Khanduri successfully transitioned from military service to public administration and remained committed to national development throughout his political career.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami called the veteran leader’s death a major loss for Uttarakhand. He said Khanduri played the role of a guide for many younger political leaders and that his principles and administrative values would continue to inspire future generations in the state.
Former Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari also remembered Khanduri as a man of integrity who maintained high moral standards throughout his public life. According to Koshyari, the late leader’s disciplined approach to governance earned him respect far beyond political boundaries.
Contribution to National Infrastructure Remembered
Member of Parliament Anil Baluni highlighted Khanduri’s contribution to India’s infrastructure sector, especially during his tenure as Union Minister for Road Transport. He credited the former Chief Minister for playing a key role in shaping major highway development projects, including the Golden Quadrilateral network that significantly improved road connectivity across the country.
Political observers in Uttarakhand noted that Khanduri remained one of the state’s most influential leaders after its formation. Known for his clean image and firm administrative decisions, he served twice as Chief Minister and continued to hold strong public support over the years.
With full military honours and state tributes, Uttarakhand closed a significant chapter in its political history. Bhuwan Chandra Khanduri’s legacy as a soldier, administrator, and public representative is expected to remain an important part of the state’s political memory for years to come.