Devprayag's 'Field Marshal': A Tribute to Diwakar Bhatt

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami paid homage to the late Devprayag MLA, Diwakar Bhatt, in the Assembly on Tuesday, lauding his resilient personality and fearless leadership as cornerstones of the state’s political life. Despite his modest origins, Bhatt emerged as a key figure in Uttarakhand politics through his ideas, struggles, and leadership. His nickname, 'Field Marshal,' reflected his determined leadership style.

The Chief Minister emphasized Bhatt's view that politics is not merely a path to power but a service and dedication avenue. Born in 1946 in Tehri district's Supar village, Bhatt was active in public movements from a young age, addressing people's issues by 19. During the challenging Uttarakhand statehood movement, he provided new direction and energy to the struggle.

Bhatt's 1995 hunger strike during the Shriyatra Tapu movement and at Khet Mountain stands as a significant milestone in the statehood struggle. Initially a trade union activist, Bhatt left his job at BHEL to strengthen the Uttarakhand movement, playing a pivotal role in boosting the hills' voice nationally. His slogan 'Ghera Dalo-Dera Dalo' became an effective public mobilization strategy.

Bhatt's political journey began at the grassroots, serving as Block Pramukh of Kirtinagar in 1983. He later became a Zila Panchayat member before being elected as MLA for Devprayag in 2007, effectively raising regional and state issues in the Assembly. As a Cabinet Minister, he handled portfolios like Revenue, Land Management, and the Welfare of Ex-Servicemen.

Diwakar Bhatt, a founding member of the Uttarakhand Kranti Dal, consistently championed state formation, forest law amendments, and hill area rights. Despite his positions, his simplicity, clarity, and dedication to Uttarakhand's welfare remained steadfast.

Bhatt's passing on November 25, 2025, leaves a significant void in the state's public life. The Assembly expressed deep condolences to his family, marking the loss as irreparable. (ANI)