Election Reform Crusader, Jagdeep Chhokar, Passes Away at 80
Veteran election reformer and founder of the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), Jagdeep Chhokar, passed away on Friday, September 12, 2025, following a heart attack. He was 80.
Chhokar, a former professor at the prestigious Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad (IIM-A), was a prominent voice advocating for greater transparency in Indian elections.
His tireless work with ADR led to numerous landmark initiatives aimed at improving electoral processes and accountability. The organisation remains actively involved in crucial Supreme Court cases related to election reforms.
His legacy extends beyond ADR’s current Supreme Court case; Chhokar’s pioneering PILs significantly impacted election transparency laws.
Chhokar’s demise leaves a void in the fight for cleaner elections. His contributions will be remembered as a crucial step towards strengthening Indian democracy. The ongoing Supreme Court case, now without his leadership, highlights the urgent need for continued advocacy for electoral reforms.