Former Congress MLA Jagdev Singh Jassowal passes away

LUDHIANA: Former Congress MLA Jagdev Singh Jassowal today passed away at a hospital following a brief illness, family sources said here.

Jassowal (80), who was known as an icon of Punjabi culture, is survived by a wife and two sons.

He was a member of Punjab Legislative Assembly from Raikot Assembly segment from 1980-1984.

He was committed to the promotion of art, culture and literature of Punjab. Jassowal was also the founder president of Prof Mohan Singh Memorial Foundation which has been organising 'Prof Mohan Singh Mela' for the last three decades.

Punjab Chief Minister Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal and his deputy Sukhbir Singh Badal condoled his death.

In a condolence message, Badal described Jassowal as a "towering personality and a cultural ambassador" who made "enormous contribution to promote ethos" of Punjab, Punjabi and Punjabiat in every nook and corner of the state besides showcasing its rich legacy and glorious cultural heritage not only at the national level but across the globe.

The CM also recalled his outstanding contribution as a multi-faced personality who was actively involved in the politics of Punjab for its overall development and safeguarding the rights of the people, besides a harbinger for promotion of art, culture and literature in Punjab.

"Jassowal's name was synonymous with Punjab's cultural heritage as he was instrumental in motivating the budding artistes, especially the folk singers, to promote Punjabi folk lore at the international arena and virtually became a heart throb of millions of Punjabis settled abroad," he said.

According to him, a void has been created in the literary and cultural fraternity which was difficult to be filled.