Om Prakash Chautala, Former Haryana CM, Dies at 89: A Life of Legacy and Controversy

Gurugram, Haryana: Om Prakash Chautala, the former Chief Minister of Haryana and leader of the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD), passed away on December 20, 2024, in Gurugram at the age of 89 due to a cardiac arrest. Known for his strong political presence and controversial career, Chautala left a lasting impact on the state’s political landscape.

Born to the influential Chaudhary Devi Lal, a key figure in Haryana's formation and former Deputy Prime Minister of India, Chautala followed his father’s path into politics, eventually serving as the Chief Minister of Haryana for multiple terms between 1989 and 2005. Throughout his career, he was a voice for Haryana’s rural and farming communities.

However, his political journey was far from smooth. In 2022, he was convicted in a case involving disproportionate assets and sentenced to four years in jail. Chautala had been released in 2020 after serving part of his sentence. In addition, he faced various controversies, including accusations of being involved in a 1990 political murder. Despite these allegations, Chautala remained a dominant figure in the state’s politics, often rebuilding his image after political setbacks.

Chautala’s family continues to play a major role in Haryana politics. His sons Abhay and Ajay, as well as his grandson Dushyant, who serves as Deputy CM of Haryana, are leading his political legacy.

Om Prakash Chautala’s passing marks the end of an era in Haryana’s political history. His enduring influence, both admired and criticized, will shape the state’s political future.