Excelsior Correspondent
LEH, June 1: Veteran Congress leader and former Union Minister, P Namgyal, passed away this morning at 5.45 at Leh. Known for his commitment and conviction, Namgyal served the people of Ladakh in different capacities as member of J&K Legislative Council for 3 terms and 3 terms as Member of Parliament from Ladakh constituency.
He remained the first ever Union Minister of State under late Rajiv Gandhi’s Cabinet for Ladakh. Namgyal contributed in achieving the ST status to Ladakhis and LAHDC. Under his leadership, the UT of Ladakh witnessed massive development in every respect whether it is opening of Akashwani Kendra Leh, introduction of Indian Airlines flight to Leh, establishment of Indian Oil outlets and depots in Ladakh as well as LPG coverage of Ladakh.
He was born on December 17, 1937 in Sumur (Nubra) in the family of Stakna and was younger brother of the legendry MVC bar Col Chewang Rinchen. He completed his MSc in Agriculture from Agriculture University Ludhiana and Andra Pradesh Agricultural University Hyderabad following which he served as Agriculture Research Officer for a short period of time before joining public life in 1969.
P Namgyal was the most towering leader in Congress Party next only to Late Kushok Bakula Rinpochay, who was the man of absolute integrity, fearless and dedicated personality. He left a legacy of political heritage of honesty, state forwardness and cleanliness in the political culture of Ladakh emulated by the younger generation of Ladakh.
In his passing away, a void has been left which is difficult to fill up not only in Ladakh but in the country.
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