Retired IAS officer and the first Chairman of the Competition Commission of India (CCI), Dhanendra Kumar, passed away in a fire at his residence in Delhi’s Hauz Khas area due to a suspected air-conditioner blast. The incident, which occurred late at night, also resulted in injuries to his son, who is currently receiving medical treatment. Authorities have ruled out foul play in the matter.
The 80-year-old bureaucrat and his son were rescued from the building and taken to a nearby hospital, where Dhanendra Kumar unfortunately succumbed to smoke inhalation. His son, however, is reported to be in stable condition and continues to receive care. Investigative teams are examining the cause of the fire, with initial findings suggesting it may have originated from an air-conditioner explosion.
Dhanendra Kumar had a distinguished career in public administration and economic policymaking, serving in various key roles in the Central government and Haryana administration. He held senior positions in ministries such as Defence, Road Transport and Highways, and Culture, contributing significantly to infrastructure planning and national security matters. Kumar also represented India at the World Bank and played a pivotal role in establishing the Competition Commission of India.
