Vijai Singh Mankotia, a seasoned politician in Himachal Pradesh and a former member of the legislative assembly, died on September 29, 2026, at the age of 87. His death was confirmed by family sources in Kangra district.
Mankotia’s political career stretched over more than two decades. He represented the Shahpur constituency in the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly during two separate periods, from 1982 to 1998 and again from 2003 to 2007. He was affiliated with the Indian National Congress during his later terms. Before that, he contested elections on Janata Dal tickets, according to records.
His tenure in the assembly was marked by a rivalry with Virbhadra Singh, who served multiple terms as Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister. Mankotia was known as a long-time political adversary of Singh, a relationship that played out in several electoral battles over the years. Their rivalry was often cited as a defining feature of Himachal Pradesh politics during the 1980s and 1990s.
Sources from the region said Mankotia was a prominent figure in Kangra politics. His influence extended beyond his electoral victories. Mankotia was known for his direct approach and his persistent presence in local issues. His political opponents acknowledged his longstanding commitment to his constituency.
Details about his life outside the legislature remain limited. His family has yet to issue a formal statement. Local political figures in Kangra noted his passing as the loss of a veteran politician who had shaped the landscape of Himachal Pradesh’s politics for decades.
Mankotia’s death comes amid ongoing political shifts in the state. Himachal Pradesh has seen a series of electoral changes since his last term ended in 2007. His absence leaves a gap in the political history of Kangra and the broader region.
His funeral arrangements have not been announced. Local authorities in Kangra confirmed that a memorial service will be held in the coming days. Mankotia’s political career leaves a record of persistent engagement, even as he faced off against some of the state’s most influential figures.
Observers note that his rivalry with Virbhadra Singh was one of the defining features of Himachal Pradesh politics in the late 20th century. Singh, who served as Chief Minister five times, was often seen as a political opponent who challenged Mankotia’s influence in Kangra.
Mankotia’s death closes a chapter in the political history of Himachal Pradesh. He leaves behind a legacy marked by his long service and fierce contests against his rivals. His influence on Kangra’s political landscape remains a point of reference for those who followed his career.
There has been no word yet on tributes or memorial events. Kangra district officials said they will coordinate with family members to determine arrangements. Political figures across the state have expressed their condolences.
The passing of Vijai Singh Mankotia underscores the shifting political currents in Himachal Pradesh, where veteran figures like him shaped the electoral landscape for decades. His absence will be felt in future electoral contests and in the collective memory of Kangra’s political history.
According to Dead-People.