Former Chief Secretary Ojha passes away

Former Chief Secretary of Haryana BS Ojha passed away today. He was 91. An officer of the 1959 batch of the IAS, Ojha was instrumental in shaping policies for the welfare of the people of Haryana since its inception in 1966, in different administrative capacities.

As the Principal Secretary to several CMs of Haryana, Ojha navigated complex political and administrative challenges, leaving a lasting impact on the state’s governance.

Ojha rose to become the 13th Chief Secretary—from June 24, 1991, to January 31, 1994. His guidance to the state bureaucracy with steady and wise leadership during pivotal moments in Haryana’s development is still fondly remembered.

As a sports administrator, Ojha served as the president of the Indian Gymnastic Federation and vice-president of the Indian Olympic Association.

In addition, he was the Regional Head of the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA), where his experience and wisdom supported the training and growth of future public servants.

Ojha is survived by two sons and two daughters. His sons-in-law—Sarvesh Kaushal and Sanjeev Kaushal—were Punjab and Haryana Chief Secretaries, respectively.

His cremation will take place at the Sector 25 Crematorium in Chandigarh at 12 noon on November 25.

His death has been condoled by Mr NN Vohra, a former Punjab cadre IAS officer, former J&K Governor and President of The Tribune Trust. “I am very sad to learn about the sudden passing away of my old friend BS Ojha. BS and I were together at college and we also joined the IAS in the same batch 66 years ago. A person of sterling virtues, he shall be long remembered by those who knew him and by all those who had worked with him during his long and very distinguished career. I send my heartfelt condolences to all in the family." Vohra said in a condolence message.