Chandigarh Erupts in Celebration as ‘Swachhata Doot’ Sardar Inderjeet Singh Sidhu Receives Padma Shri

AVTAR SINGH BHANWARA

CHANDIGARH: A wave of celebration swept across Chandigarh as the city's renowned 'Swachhata Doot', Sardar Inderjeet Singh Sidhu, was conferred with the prestigious Padma Shri, one of India's highest civilian honours, for his exceptional contribution to cleanliness and public service.

To mark the historic occasion, representatives of social organisations, local residents, and senior leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) felicitated Mr Sidhu with a Siropa (robe of honour), bouquets, and sweets, hailing his achievement as a moment of immense pride for Chandigarh.

Sharing his emotional journey, Padma Shri awardee Sardar Inderjeet Singh Sidhu recalled the struggles he faced in the early days of his cleanliness mission.

"When I began cleaning the streets, many people mocked and ridiculed me. I faced countless taunts, but I never let them discourage me. I remained committed to my mission, and today this honour is the reward for selfless service."

Mr Sidhu also fondly remembered his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying that the Prime Minister warmly encouraged him with the words: "Inderjeet Ji, you have cleaned the entire Chandigarh."

BJP State Secretary Amit Rana praised Sidhu's unwavering dedication, saying: "Sidhu Ji is no longer just Chandigarh's Swachhata Doot; he has become the nation's true ambassador of cleanliness. Whether it was the scorching 45-degree heat, biting winter cold, or late-night hours, he remained committed to serving society. His Padma Shri is a proud moment for every resident of Chandigarh."

Among those who felicitated Sardar Inderjeet Singh Sidhu were Ganesh Jha, Sheenu Aggarwal, Vijay Bali, Rakesh Sharma, Rohit Sharma, Sushil Aggarwal, Vagish Dixit, Ashwani Sharma, Mohinder Nirala, Vishal, Gagan Jindal, Varinder, along with members of several social organisations and a large number of city residents.

Speakers unanimously described the Padma Shri as not only an honour for Sardar Inderjeet Singh Sidhu but also a tribute to every citizen committed to keeping Chandigarh clean, green, and beautiful.