NEW DELHI: Jagdeep S. Chhokar, co-founder of the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and one of India’s most consistent champions of electoral transparency and accountability, passed away in Delhi on Friday, September 12, after a heart attack. He was 80.
A former professor at the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad, Chhokar gave up the comforts of academia to dedicate his life to strengthening India’s democracy.
There will be no funeral as his body was donated to a hospital here as per his wish.
For journalists, ADR was a stepping stone into the hidden world of India’s politics. Its reports on the assets and criminal records of candidates were often the starting point of chilling stories about the wealth, power, and questionable conduct of elected representatives.
Through relentless litigation and advocacy, ADR pushed the Supreme Court to mandate disclosure of candidates’ criminal, financial, and educational details. This single reform gave citizens, media, and watchdogs unprecedented tools to hold politicians accountable.
He did his law graduation while teaching at IIM.
Chhokar was more than a legal strategist; he was a tireless voice for the idea of true democracy. He spoke and wrote passionately about the need for clean politics, transparency in party funding, and the dangers of money power.
Jagdeep Chhokar leaves behind not only ADR, but also a legacy of courage, clarity, and uncompromising commitment to democratic accountability.
Chhokar, a staunch champion of electoral and political reforms, passed away in Delhi on Friday, September 12, after suffering a heart attack. He was 80.
He was also a very affable person who made even a junior reporter feel at ease and guided them with patience.
ALL PICTURES ARE FROM THE SHOW WERE HE INVINTED AS GUEST AND HE SHOW & SPEAK ABOUT ALL THE DATA OF HIS REFORM WORK,CREDIT GOES TO SOCIAL MEDIA & HIS CHANNAL
