In a somber moment for Gujarat politics, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Govind Parmar from Umreth constituency in Anand district passed away on Friday while undergoing treatment at a local hospital. The 82-year-old veteran leader had been battling prolonged illness.
Parmar’s demise has cast a pall of grief over the region, particularly in Anand district and Umreth, where he was revered as a grassroots champion. Political leaders across the state and BJP workers expressed profound sorrow, highlighting his deep connection with rural communities in the Charotar region.
Born in 1943 into a modest family, Parmar received education up to the seventh grade before dedicating his life to public service and politics. His approachable demeanor and commitment to local issues earned him widespread respect.
Parmar made his mark in the 2017 Gujarat Assembly elections, defeating Congress candidate Kapilabai Chavda by a narrow margin of 1,883 votes to secure his first term from Umreth. He consolidated his victory in 2022, trouncing NCP’s Jayant Patel by 26,717 votes after garnering 95,639 votes, ensuring the BJP retained the seat.
State BJP president and MLA Jagdish Vishkarma led the tributes, stating in a heartfelt message, ‘The tragic news of popular Umreth MLA Govindbhai Parmar’s passing has deeply saddened me. I pray to God for peace to his soul and strength to his family.’
Parmar’s career was defined by his unwavering focus on ground-level politics and strong ties with constituents. Party workers in Anand and Umreth organized homage events, remembering his contributions to community welfare.
With his passing, the Umreth Assembly seat now falls vacant, prompting speculation on the by-election process. Parmar’s legacy as a dedicated servant of the people will endure in Gujarat’s political landscape.