Srinagar, Nov 01(KNS): Devinder Singh Rana, a business tycoon and BJP politician, has passed away in Delhi, according to family sources.

Rana, founder of JamKash Vehicleads, recently won the Nagrota assembly seat with a record margin. As a BJP candidate in the Nagrota constituency, he was among the wealthiest contestants in the Jammu division.

Previously, Rana was associated with the JK National Conference and served as a close advisor to Omar Abdullah during his tenure as Chief Minister. Originating from Jammu’s Doda district, Rana gained recognition by founding his automobile company. His political career began with the National Conference, where he became an advisor to Omar Abdullah and Provincial President.

Rana was the son of former bureaucrat Rajinder Singh Rana and the brother of Union Minister Jitendra Singh. Former Chief Secretary SS Baloria was his father-in-law. He graduated in Civil Engineering from NIT Kurukshetra.

Rana’s first significant political win was in the Nagrota assembly seat for the NC, demonstrating his cross-community support. His advocacy for a Dogra chief minister and the Jammu Declaration aimed at regional empowerment and restoring statehood for Jammu.

After leaving the NC in 2021, he joined the BJP, continuing to support regional issues.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelRana maintained relationships with both Hindu and Muslim communities, including the Gujjars, becoming a key figure in Jammu's politics.

In the 2024 assembly elections, he won with a margin of 30,472 votes against NC's Joginder Singh, who received 17,641 votes.

Rana is survived by his wife, two daughters, and a son.


The BJP unit J&K in a statement said that BJP leader and sitting MLA from the Nagrota assembly constituency, Devender Singh Rana, passed away.

"Known for his dedicated service to his constituency and commitment to the party’s ideals, Rana was a prominent political figure in Jammu and Kashmir," it said

" His sudden demise has left the BJP and his supporters in shock. Party members and leaders have expressed deep condolences, remembering him for his invaluable contributions to the region. Further details on the cause and arrangements for his last rites are awaited," it added.(KNS).