Satya Pal Malik: India’s Maverick Governor & Critic

Satya Pal Malik: Governor, Critic, Political Maverick

Why in the News?

Satya Pal Malik, former Governor of Jammu & Kashmir and a rare vocal critic of PM Modi while in office, passed away on August 5, 2025 — the sixth anniversary of Article 370 abrogation. His controversial tenure and allegations drew national attention.

Satya Pal Malik: India's Maverick Governor & Critic

Controversies and Open Criticism:

  • Dissolved the J&K Assembly in 2018, citing instability and alleged “horse-trading”.
  • Alleged the Pulwama attack (2019) could’ve been avoided if aircraft requests weren’t denied.
  • Accused the Centre of pressuring him to stay silent about lapses in governance.
  • In 2021, during the farmers’ protests, he openly criticized PM Modi, and continued to support women wrestlers’ protests.
  • Claimed he was offered ₹150 crore bribes during his tenure as Governor — refused them and went public.

Legacy, Corruption Charges & Final Years

  • In May 2025, CBI filed charges against him in the ₹2,200-crore Kiru Hydropower project scam.
  • He denied all allegations, calling them political vendetta.
  • Died aged 79, survived by his wife Iqbal Malik and son Dev Kabir.
  • Remembered as a straight-talker, but also viewed by some as an opportunist for his shifting political loyalties.
  • His role in Article 370, blunt views, and bold claims ensure a complex legacy in Indian politics.

Political Journey of Satya Pal Malik and Key Positions Held:
● Born in 1946 in Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh, Malik began as a student union leader in Meerut.
● Started political career with socialist circles; held roles in Lok Dal, Congress, Janata Dal, and finally BJP.
● Served as Rajya Sabha MP and briefly as Union Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs in 1990.
● Became Governor of Bihar (2017), then J&K Governor (2018) — first politician to hold the post since insurgency began.
● Oversaw the abrogation of Article 370 in J&K on August 5, 2019. Later transferred to Goa and Meghalaya.