Raipur/Champa:
Former Governor of Chhattisgarh and retired IAS officer Shekhar Dutt passed away at AIIMS, New Delhi. Dutt, who served as the fourth Governor of Chhattisgarh, breathed his last after a distinguished career in both administrative services and defense.
A 1969-batch IAS officer of the Madhya Pradesh cadre, Shekhar Dutt held several key positions during his career. He served as the Defence Secretary of India and later as the Deputy National Security Advisor. His tenure as Governor of Chhattisgarh lasted from January 23, 2010, to June 18, 2014.
Before entering civil services, Dutt served in the Indian Army as a Short Service Commission officer. He was awarded the Sena Medal for his bravery during the 1971 India-Pakistan war. In his administrative career, he served as Principal Secretary in departments such as Tribal Welfare, Scheduled Caste Welfare, School Education, and Sports & Youth Welfare in Madhya Pradesh.
He also held key roles on deputation to the central government. As Director General of the Sports Authority of India (SAI), he played a major role in organizing the first Afro-Asian Games held in Hyderabad in 2003. Though he officially retired in 2007, he was appointed as Deputy National Security Advisor for two more years due to his expertise and experience.
Following the news of his demise, the Press Club Champa expressed deep sorrow and paid tribute to the late governor. Members offered prayers for peace to the departed soul and extended their condolences to the bereaved family.