**BJP Stalwart Vijay Kumar Malhotra, Who Defeated Manmohan Singh, Passes Away**

*By Chanshimla Varah | Sep 30, 2025, 12:58 PM*

Veteran Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and former Member of Parliament Vijay Kumar Malhotra passed away in Delhi on Tuesday at the age of 93. A prominent figure in the party, Malhotra is widely credited with expanding the BJP’s footprint in Delhi.

**Early Life and Political Journey**

Born in Lahore on December 3, 1931, Malhotra began his political career with the Jana Sangh, the predecessor of the BJP. Over the years, he emerged as a key leader and played a significant role in shaping the party’s growth in Delhi.

**Distinguished Political Career**

Malhotra served as the president of the Delhi Pradesh Jana Sangh from 1972 to 1975. He later held the position of President of the Bharatiya Janata Party Delhi Pradesh twice, from 1977 to 1980 and again from 1980 to 1984.

As a politician, he was elected as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) twice and represented his constituency as a Member of Parliament (MP) five times, making him one of the BJP’s most enduring leaders in the capital.

His most notable political achievement was during the 1999 Lok Sabha elections, where he secured a decisive victory against former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

**Enduring Impact and Legacy**

In the 2004 Lok Sabha elections, Malhotra stood out as the only BJP candidate to win his seat in Delhi. He was widely respected for his clean image and his tireless dedication to serving the people.

Beyond politics, Malhotra was an educationist with a doctorate in Hindi literature. He was also actively involved in the administration of chess and archery clubs in Delhi, contributing to the promotion of sports and education.

**National Mourning and Tributes**

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid heartfelt tribute to Vijay Kumar Malhotra on X, describing him as “an outstanding leader” who had a “very good understanding of people’s issues.” Modi acknowledged Malhotra’s vital role in strengthening the BJP in Delhi.

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh also honored him, calling Malhotra a “seasoned parliamentarian who worked tirelessly among people.” He remarked that stalwarts like Malhotra hold a special place in the history of both the Jana Sangh and the BJP.

Vijay Kumar Malhotra’s legacy as a dedicated leader and his contributions to Indian politics will be remembered for years to come.
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