Delhi: Devender Singh Rana, a prominent BJP leader and influential business tycoon, passed away in Delhi at the age of 59, marking a profound loss for both political and business communities in Jammu and Kashmir. Known for his dynamic leadership, Rana had been contending with health challenges for months, with a recent illness leading to notable weight loss. His passing has left the region in mourning, with family, friends, and colleagues remembering him as a pioneer in both politics and entrepreneurship.
Rana’s business ventures were transformative for Jammu and Kashmir. As the founder of JamKash Vehicleads, he reshaped the car sales landscape, becoming a leading Maruti seller in North India and greatly boosting local economic growth. His entrepreneurial spirit extended to the media sector, with the establishment of TakeOne TV in Jammu, a channel that continues to serve the region. Rana’s achievements in the business world were matched by his political success, where he made history by winning the Nagrota assembly seat with a record margin, cementing his role as a political heavyweight.
Rana initially made his mark with the National Conference (NC), winning Nagrota’s assembly seat in 2014 as the party’s sole representative from Jammu. However, in a decisive move in 2021, he joined the BJP, where he maintained his political influence, securing a resounding victory over JKNC’s Joginder Singh by 30,472 votes. This shift marked him as one of Jammu and Kashmir’s wealthiest and most influential political figures, with his impact resonating across the political spectrum.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed profound grief over Rana’s passing, describing him as a “patriotic and widely respected leader.” Sinha shared his condolences in a message on social media, stating, “In his passing, we have lost a committed leader who served tirelessly for the welfare of our people. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. Om Shanti.”
Condolences poured in from political leaders across the board. Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union MoS in the PMO and Rana’s brother, alongside PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Congress leader Ghulam Ahmed Mir, and BJP spokesperson Tarun Chugh, paid tribute to Rana’s dedication, each reflecting on his substantial contributions to business and politics.
Among those deeply touched was Dr. Bilal Ahmad Bhat, a respected entrepreneur and political activist, who praised Rana’s enduring legacy. “Devender Singh Rana transformed the automotive market in J&K and was a pillar of support for countless communities,” Dr. Bhat noted, commemorating Rana’s far-reaching impact.
Fittingly, Rana’s passing on Diwali has cast a somber tone over the celebrations in Jammu and Kashmir, as the region remembers his commitment and contributions. His life’s work and indomitable spirit leave an enduring legacy, continuing to inspire future generations in both the business and political spheres.
