A prayer meeting to commemorate the late senior journalist, author, and former BJP Rajya Sabha MP Balbir Punj will be held on Thursday at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi. The event is scheduled from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Janpath venue, with senior leaders, political figures, and media members expected to pay their respects.
Organizers have confirmed the presence of prominent leaders from the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, Bharatiya Janata Party officials, Union ministers, journalists, and intellectuals at the prayer meet. They aim to honor Punj’s legacy and his significant contributions to public life.
Balbir Punj, aged 76, passed away on April 18 in Noida after battling a prolonged illness. His demise garnered condolences from various political circles, with leaders acknowledging his role as a writer, thinker, and policymaker. Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Punj as a prolific writer and thinker, emphasizing his contributions to media and nation-building.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah recognized Punj for his intellectual contributions to the BJP, while Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed him as a stalwart of nationalist ideology. Former President Ram Nath Kovind and other dignitaries expressed sorrow over his demise, recognizing his significant impact on public life.
Punj had a distinguished career spanning over five decades in journalism, politics, and public policy. He was a two-time Rajya Sabha member, representing Uttar Pradesh and Odisha, and also chaired the National Commission for Youth. Known for his book “Tryst with Ayodhya: Decolonisation of India,” Punj was a key figure in the BJP’s ideological and policy discussions.
Colleagues and admirers remember him as a committed nationalist voice who bridged media and politics. The prayer meeting on Thursday is expected to draw a large gathering of individuals associated with his extensive public life, paying homage to his memory.
