Jagdeep S. Chhokar (1944–2025), co-founder of the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and a leading activist for electoral reforms, passed away on September 12, 2025, in Delhi due to a heart attack. At the age of 80, he had willed his body to be donated to a medical college, a testament to his spirit of service. His contribution to strengthening Indian democracy was invaluable, especially his commitment to electoral transparency and accountability, which established him as a stalwart.

Birth and Educational Background

Born on November 25, 1944, Chhokar earned an engineering degree in 1967 and later completed his MBA from the Faculty of Management Studies, Delhi University. He was also a trained lawyer. In his career, he worked as an engineer-manager in the Indian Railways and as an international marketing manager for four years. These diverse experiences shaped him into an expert in management and organizational behavior.

Academic Career and International Teaching

From 1985 until November 2006, he served as a professor of management and organizational behavior at the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad (IIM-A), retiring upon reaching the mandatory age of superannuation. His research was published in numerous international journals, and he contributed chapters to edited books. He authored several teaching case studies, and his writings appeared in business as well as popular journals. This phase marked a watershed moment in Indian democracy.

Under his leadership, ADR achieved major victories such as the striking down of the Electoral Bonds Scheme, EVM verification reforms (2024), and the Supreme Court case on Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar. He combined the rigor of a researcher with the zeal of a reformer, presenting data that unsettled political parties and empowered citizens. The ADR website’s homepage carries the line: “Citizens are the masters in a democracy!”-a perfect reflection of his vision.

Other Interests and Personal Life

Chhokar was a birdwatcher and conservationist who enjoyed spending Sundays with friends. Though not a career activist, he stepped out of the comfort of academia to plunge into the battle for electoral reforms. His intellectual integrity, patience, and selfless dedication made him truly unique.

Legacy and Tributes

His death is a profound loss for Indian democracy. Former Election Commissioner Ashok Lavasa said, “His work was invaluable in strengthening democracy.” Former Chief Election Commissioner S.Y. Quraishi hailed him as “a crusader for clean elections and electoral reforms.” RJD MP Manoj Jha remarked, “Though his voice may have fallen silent, the path he showed will continue to guide us forward.”

Chhokar will always be remembered as an uncompromising reformer who made democracy more accountable. His ideals will continue through ADR, and Indian citizens remain indebted to him. We pray for his soul to rest in peace.