On Thursday, Rajasthan mourned the loss of a stalwart as former Deputy Chief Minister and Assembly Speaker, Hari Shankar Bhabhra, passed away at the age of 96. Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma expressed his condolences on Twitter, calling Bhabhra’s demise an irreparable loss to the state.
Hari Shankar Bhabhra, who had been ailing for several days, breathed his last on Wednesday night while undergoing treatment at Rungta Hospital in Jaipur. Known for his political prowess, administrative skills, and transparency in public life, Harishankar Bhabhra left an indelible mark on the political landscape of Rajasthan.
Born on August 6, 1928, in Khirki Darwaja, Didwana, Nagaur District, Bhabhra was a prominent leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He served as the Speaker of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly twice, from March 16, 1990, to October 5, 1994. His electoral victories in 1985, 1990, and 1993 from Ratangarh in Churu district underscored his popularity among the electorate.
In addition to his role as the Deputy Chief Minister from October 6, 1994, to December 1, 1998, Hari Shankar Bhabhra contributed significantly to economic policy and reforms as the deputy chairperson in the Rajasthan Government. His tenure in the Rajya Sabha from 1978 to 1984 further solidified his standing in Indian politics.
Hari Shankar Bhabhra’s educational journey saw him earn a Bachelor of Arts and a law degree from Nagpur Law College. He also held a Prabhakar and studied at Hindi Bhasha Sangh High School in Nagpur. Married to Smt. Yasoda Devi since July 3, 1941, had two sons and three daughters.
His contributions extended beyond politics; Bhabhra’s legacy includes family ties in Nagpur and Kamptee, showcasing a life deeply rooted in service and familial bonds.
