HE WILL BE DEARLY MISSED BY ONE AND ALL: AMARINDER

Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh expressed profound grief over the hockey icon’s demise. In his condolence message, the CM recalled the immense contribution of Balbir Senior to the promotion of sports, especially hockey, adding that he will be dearly missed and will forever remain an inspiration. Akali Dal president Sukhbir Badal tweeted, “Balbir ji remained an ambassador for hockey throughout his life. He will be sorely missed.”

Punjab leader of opposition Harpal Singh Cheema said in a tweet, “Deeply saddened by the demise of Balbir Singh Sr. Ji. It is a huge loss to our nation.” MLAs Olympian Pargat Singh and Parminder Singh Dhindsa also laid wreaths to pay their respects to the departed soul. On the behalf of the Punjab governor and administrator of Union Territory VP Singh Badnore, ADC Chandigarh Sachin Rana placed the wreath. Representatives of Hockey India, Punjab Olympics Association and Hockey Punjab also laid wreaths.