Major Vijay Singh Mankotia, former Himachal minister, dies at 87

Major Vijay Singh Mankotia, a prominent political figure in Himachal Pradesh and five-time MLA from Shahpur, has passed away at the age of 87. He died suddenly from a heart attack at his residence in Tiara, Kangra district.

Mankotia served as a minister for Tourism, Civil Aviation, and Law between 1995 and 2004. A former Major in the Indian Army, he was known for his outspoken nature and diverse political affiliations, having been associated with the Congress, Janata Dal, and the Bahujan Samaj Party before joining the BJP. He was also an author of books including ‘The Pattern of Destiny’ and ‘Upheaval’.

His death has prompted condolences from Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and other leaders. However, his passing has also sparked political debate regarding the level of state honors provided during his funeral, with some leaders questioning why traditional protocols for former ministers were not fully observed.