Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently paused during a significant political event in West Bengal to seek blessings from Makhanlal Sarkar, a revered 98-year-old Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) veteran. This poignant moment occurred just before Suvendu Adhikari's oath-taking ceremony as the new Chief Minister of West Bengal on May 9, 2026, highlighting Sarkar's profound significance within the party's history.
A Life Dedicated to Nationalism
Makhanlal Sarkar's journey is a testament to unwavering nationalism and grassroots dedication. Born nearly a century ago, Sarkar is widely acknowledged as one of the earliest and most steadfast workers of the BJP in West Bengal, with roots tracing back to the Bharatiya Jana Sangh.
His commitment to nationalist ideals was evident early in his life. In 1952, Sarkar was arrested in Kashmir alongside the esteemed leader Syama Prasad Mukherjee. Their act of defiance—demanding the right to hoist the Indian tricolour—underscored a profound dedication to national unity and sovereignty.
Another notable incident involved his arrest by the Delhi Police for singing a nationalist song. Sarkar famously refused to apologize in court, choosing instead to sing the same song once more. The judge, reportedly moved by his conviction, ordered his release, providing him with a first-class ticket and 100 rupees for his journey home, a story that became legendary among party cadres.
Building the BJP in West Bengal
When the Bharatiya Janata Party was formally established in 1980, Makhanlal Sarkar was entrusted with crucial organizational responsibilities. He was tasked with expanding the party's footprint across West Dinajpur, Jalpaiguri, and Darjeeling districts. Sarkar approached this challenge with tireless energy, successfully establishing the organization in numerous villages within a remarkably short period.
His efforts yielded significant results; within a single year, Sarkar was instrumental in enrolling approximately 10,000 new members into the BJP. His leadership extended to serving as district president for an unprecedented seven consecutive years, from 1981 to 1988—a period during which it was rare for any leader to hold such an organizational position for more than two years.
Even in his advanced age, Makhanlal Sarkar remains actively involved in party work. He is celebrated for his consistent prioritization of organizational duties over personal recognition or high-profile positions, embodying a spirit of selfless service that continues to inspire younger generations of party workers.