Immortal in Delhi's memory

If there is one leader that may be credited with changing the face of Delhi city, in more ways than one, it is the three-time Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit who ruled and governed Delhi for 15 years and transformed it beyond recognition. It is an irreplaceable loss to Delhi in particular, and of a fine example of visionary leadership in Indian democracy, when she was laid to rest on Sunday. Her relentless dedication to active public service made the last mark when she was seen campaigning for her party in the scorching summer heat for the 2019 Lok Sabha election. Known to be an affable person before being a power-bearer, there are plenty of reasons Ms. Dikshit will continue to live in the memory of contemporary Delhi, the city which owes its makeover to her. The massive improvement and development of Delhi's public infrastructure and environment are her most prominent achievements. In the words of President Kovind, Sheila Dikshit's 15 years as Delhi's Chief Minister was a "glorious period making Delhi what it is today". Numerous eminent figures poured in their condolences, remembering and acknowledging her for her major role in building Delhi and expressing their grief at the loss. The roads and the flyovers, the city's lifeline: Delhi Metro, the world-class Terminal-3 of Indira Gandhi International Airport are some of her infrastructural legacies. A very significant landmark change she brought about in Delhi is one the city is grappling hard with today: clean air. She played a critical role in bringing in CNG to fuel public transport, taking that first step in recognising that clean air is everyone's right. Her contribution in this respect remains unmatched. Reenforcing her credentials, her acumen and excellence were in need and demand outside Delhi when she was proposed as the Congress party's Chief Ministerial candidate for Uttar Pradesh in the state assembly election of 2017. She also served as Governor of Kerala. The Aam Admi Party-led Delhi government has announced to observe a two-day state mourning as a mark of respect in the memory of former Chief Minister and veteran leader who brought grace, humanity, wisdom, and excellence to everything she did.