Satya Pal Malik, 79, former Goa governor, passed away at Delhi’s Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital on Tuesday after a prolonged illness. Malik had been undergoing treatment for kidney-related complications. A chequered chapter of courage, conviction and controversies came to a close, a chapter where pages of Goa were inscribed firmly.
In the contemporary political era, where most governors adopt a subdued, apolitical stance, serving primarily as ceremonial figures to ‘high commands’ or diplomatic intermediaries, Malik stood out as a rare exception. His outspoken nature, unwavering principles, and bold confrontations with both the establishment and the government have left an indelible legacy of courage and integrity. Malik’s journey from a seasoned politician to a vocal critic encapsulates a unique narrative of defiance in an era dominated by political conformity.
Malik’s outspoken traits took Goa by storm during the Covid phase. Unlike the typically diplomatic governors that Goa had, who acted as mere rubber-stamps, Malik openly criticised the state government’s Covid response and made open charges of corruption. His public comments opposing the proposed construction of a new governor’s house and the mishandling of ration distribution underscored his bravado in confronting the system. Such frankness, especially in the politically sensitive environment of Goa, especially when the "double engine" sarkar was in full steam, has been unprecedented, and it is such strong posturing that people and leaders began looking at the governor as a mediator.
Malik’s outspokenness was not exclusive to Goa. From his early days as a socialist student leader to his election to the Uttar Pradesh Assembly, and subsequently as a member of Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha, Malik’s trajectory reflects his deep engagement with public issues. His tenure as governor across four states — Bihar, Jammu and Kashmir, Goa, and Meghalaya — was a testimony to his adaptability and commitment to service. It is his tenure in Jammu and Kashmir, during some of its most tumultuous times, that truly defined his legacy.
In August 2018, Malik was appointed the last governor of Jammu and Kashmir before the abrogation of Article 370. During this period, he witnessed historic events — the Pulwama attack, which claimed 40 CRPF lives, and the subsequent revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status in August 2019. Malik’s candid critique of the government’s handling of these crises distinguished him from his predecessors. He openly questioned security lapses and accused the central government of indifference, hinting at political motives behind the events. His assertions about intelligence failures and security lapses, although controversial, reflected his willingness to confront uncomfortable truths. His support for farmers’ protests against the central laws, even at the cost of his relationship with the BJP, exemplifies his commitment to principles over partisan loyalty.
Malik led on his terms, a politician who refused to be confined by party lines or political decorum. He leaves behind a legacy that may be tough to follow because, in current-day politics, it is difficult for governors to embrace honesty and boldness and be outspoken. Today's era is often characterised by strategic silence and fear.
Malik’s outspoken traits serve as a reminder of the vital role integrity and courage play in leadership. His journey tells us that true statesmanship involves speaking truth to power, standing firm on convictions, and prioritising public interest over political convenience. We need governors with an unwavering resolve to uphold honesty and serve as a voice for the voiceless.
