NEW DELHI: Former Punjab chief minister and Parkash Singh Badal passed away on Tuesday after prolonged illness. He was 95.
The veteran leader was admitted to the Fortis Hospital in Mohali more than a week ago after he complained of uneasiness while breathing.
The five-time former chief minister of Punjab was hospitalised in June last year also following complaints related to gastritis and bronchial asthma.
In February 2022, he was taken to a private hospital in Mohali for a post-Covid health examination during which he also underwent cardiac and pulmonary check-ups.
Badal tested positive for Covid-19 in January last year and was admitted to a hospital in Ludhiana.
Badal had unsuccessfully contested the elections in Punjab last year.
Badal started his political career in the early 1950s and has been associated with various political parties over the years, including Congress.
He has served as the chief minister of Punjab for five terms – from 1970-71, 1977-80.
(With inputs from agencies)