Professor Jagdeep Chhokar: A Beacon of Democratic Reform Leaves an Indelible Mark at IIMA and Beyond

The academic and activist community mourns the passing of Professor Jagdeep S Chhokar, a distinguished former professor at the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA). Professor Chhokar, who breathed his last on Friday, November 15, 2024, at the age of 80, leaves behind an indelible legacy as a pioneering force for democratic reforms in India.

His visionary leadership and unwavering commitment laid the groundwork for significant changes in the nation's political landscape, primarily through his pivotal role in co-founding the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR).

Professor Chhokar’s journey into political activism was ignited by a profound concern for the state of Indian democracy.

In 1999, driven by the belief that money and muscle power were corrupting the electoral process, he co-founded ADR with fellow IIMA professors and committed citizens. ADR’s mission was audacious yet essential: to bring transparency and accountability to elections by making public the financial and criminal backgrounds of electoral candidates.

This initiative faced immense resistance but, through relentless legal battles and advocacy, ADR achieved a landmark victory in 2002 when the Supreme Court mandated the disclosure of candidate assets, liabilities, and criminal records – a transformative moment for Indian voters.

Under his guidance, ADR blossomed into a powerful watchdog, meticulously analyzing candidate affidavits, exposing discrepancies, and educating the electorate.

Professor Chhokar firmly believed that an informed voter was the cornerstone of a healthy democracy. His work with ADR empowered millions, transforming the act of voting from a blind choice into a conscious, data-driven decision. He championed the right to information, ensuring that citizens had access to crucial facts about those seeking to represent them.

Even as he spearheaded ADR’s groundbreaking work, Professor Chhokar remained a revered figure at IIMA, where he taught for over two decades.

His classrooms were not just spaces for academic learning but incubators for critical thinking and civic engagement. He challenged students to question, to analyze, and to consider their roles in shaping society. Many former students recall his gentle demeanor coupled with an uncompromising intellect, inspiring them to pursue careers in public service and ethical leadership.

His influence extended beyond lectures, fostering an environment where social responsibility was as valued as academic excellence.

Tributes poured in from across the nation, reflecting the depth of his impact. M.G. Devasahayam, a former IAS officer and a collaborator, fondly remembered Professor Chhokar as a 'gentle giant' whose dedication to justice was unparalleled.

Jagdeep Singh, ADR’s head of operations, emphasized Professor Chhokar’s belief in the collective power of citizens and his meticulous approach to every detail. These testimonials paint a picture of a man who was not only an intellectual powerhouse but also a mentor, a guide, and a relentless advocate for the common good.

Professor Chhokar's legacy is far greater than the legal precedents he helped establish.

It lies in the consciousness he awakened, the standards he set for political transparency, and the countless individuals he inspired to become active participants in democracy. He leaves behind an institution (ADR) that continues his fight, and a nation whose electoral process is undeniably more robust and accountable because of his lifelong dedication.

His life was a testament to the power of one individual to drive profound, positive change, proving that with conviction and perseverance, even the most entrenched systems can be reformed.

As India moves forward, the principles championed by Professor Jagdeep S Chhokar – transparency, accountability, and an informed citizenry – remain more vital than ever.

He will be remembered not just as an IIMA professor or an ADR founder, but as a true architect of modern Indian democracy, whose spirit will continue to guide the path towards a more just and equitable political future.