Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Apr 19: Balbir Punj, senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and former vice president of the party, passed away on Saturday evening, marking the end of a distinguished career spanning politics, journalism, and public discourse.
Punj was widely regarded as a key intellectual voice within the BJP, contributing significantly to policy discussions and ideological debates. He also served as a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha, where he actively participated in deliberations on social, economic, and political issues.
Before entering politics, Punj carved a notable career in journalism. He began his professional journey in 1971 with The Motherland and later joined Financial Express in 1974, where he worked for over two decades until 1996. Known for his sharp analysis and insightful commentary, he subsequently served as Executive Editor of The Observer of Business and Politics from May 1996 to March 2000.
His contributions to journalism extended beyond writing. Punj served as President of the Delhi Journalists Association for two consecutive terms between 1989 and 1991, and as General Secretary of the National Union of Journalists from 1993 to 1995. He also played a role in media education, chairing a Southeast Asian media training organisation linked to IIMC for two years until March 2000.
In public life, he held several important positions, including Chairman of the National Commission for Youth and member of the Delhi Finance Commission during 1996–97, reflecting his continued engagement in governance and youth development.
An accomplished author and columnist, Punj remained active in writing for both Hindi and English publications until his final days. In recognition of his contributions, he was honoured with the Lifelong Devrishi Narad Samman Award in May 2022.
His passing marks the loss of a veteran journalist, thinker, and political figure.