Chandigarh’s ‘Broom Warrior’ Inderjit Singh Sidhu Honoured with Padma Shri

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Chandigarh, June 24

Retired Punjab Police Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Inderjit Singh Sidhu, widely recognised as Chandigarh’s “Broom Warrior”, has been honoured with the Padma Shri by President Droupadi Murmu for his outstanding contribution to cleanliness and social service.

Sidhu, who dedicated his post-retirement years to improving public spaces in Chandigarh, has spent nearly three decades volunteering to clean roads, parks, and other civic areas. His consistent efforts have earned him admiration as a symbol of citizen-led cleanliness initiatives.

Born on 6 June 1938 in Gagarpur village of Sangrur district, Punjab, Sidhu built a career marked by discipline, integrity, and public service. After completing his Bachelor of Arts from Government Ranbir College, Sangrur, he pursued a Master’s degree in Economics from Mahindra College, Patiala.

During his college years, Sidhu excelled in boxing and received the College Colour Award. He was also featured twice in the Roll of Honour in Sports after becoming a champion among universities in Punjab. His commitment to social responsibility was visible during NCC camps, where he was recognised for voluntary service and cleanliness activities.

Sidhu joined the Punjab Police as an Inspector in 1963 and was inducted into the Indian Police Service (IPS) in 1981. During his distinguished career, he served in Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, New Delhi, and Kolkata. He also contributed during the 1971 Indo-Pak conflict in the Samba Sector.

For his exemplary service, Sidhu was awarded the Police Medal for Meritorious Service in 1991. He retired in 1996 as DIG (Intelligence), Punjab, from Chandigarh.

After retirement, Sidhu began focusing on cleanliness and civic responsibility. A regular morning walker, he was concerned by the deteriorating condition of parks and pathways and started collecting litter during his daily walks.

Over the years, his personal initiative developed into a larger mission. He cleaned public spaces, wrote to authorities regarding sanitation issues, encouraged cleaning staff, and motivated citizens through his actions.

Long before the launch of the Swachh Bharat Mission, Sidhu had been following and promoting its principles through his own efforts. His journey reflects humility, discipline, and selfless service, both during his years in uniform and beyond.