NEW DELHI: Balbir Punj, a senior leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party and former vice president of the party, passed away on April 18 in New Delhi. His demise brings to a close a long and impactful journey that bridged journalism, politics, and public discourse.
Before entering active politics, Punj carved a distinguished career in journalism. He began his professional journey in 1971 with The Motherland with Malkaniji who was in the past the editor of Organiser. Balbir Punj ji later joined the Financial Express in 1974, where he worked for over two decades. During this period, he earned a reputation for his incisive commentary on economic and political issues. He subsequently served as Executive Editor of The Observer of Business and Politics between 1996 and 2000.
Punj also played an active role in strengthening journalistic institutions. He served as President of the Delhi Journalists Association from 1989 to 1991 and later as General Secretary of the National Union of Journalists. His contributions extended to media education, including his leadership role at the Indian Institute of Mass Communication.
In public life, Punj served as a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha, where he contributed to debates on social, economic, and governance issues. He also held positions such as Chairman of the National Commission for Youth and was a member of the Delhi Finance Commission.
An accomplished author and columnist, Punj continued writing in Hindi and English publications until his final days. In recognition of his lifelong contributions, he was honoured with the Devrishi Narad Samman in 2022.
His passing marks the loss of a seasoned journalist, thoughtful policymaker, and a prominent voice in India’s intellectual and political landscape.
