Inderjit Singh Sidhu: From Law Enforcement to Lifelong Civic Service
Inderjit Singh Sidhu is an extraordinary example of a life lived in the spirit of service before self. At 88 years of age, he has captured national admiration not for political influence or commercial success, but for his humble dedication to keeping his city clean — a mission that earned him the Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian honour in India in 2026.
Early Life and Distinguished Police Career
Born into a period when India was building its administrative and law enforcement institutions in the decades after independence, Inderjit Singh Sidhu began his career in public service through the Punjab Public Service Commission in 1963. Initially recruited as an inspector, he showcased commitment and competence that eventually led to his induction into the Indian Police Service (IPS) in 1981.
During a tumultuous era marked by social unrest and militancy in Punjab, Sidhu served with distinction. Among his notable assignments was his tenure as City Superintendent of Police in Amritsar in 1986, where law and order challenges were at their peak. His service culminated in his role as Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police in the CID, Chandigarh, a prestigious post from which he retired in 1996.
Throughout his career, Sidhu was known for his discipline, integrity, and dedication — qualities that would come to define his post-retirement life in unexpected ways.
A New Mission in Retirement
Ordinarily, retirement signals a period of rest and respite, especially after three decades in demanding law enforcement roles. But for Sidhu, retirement marked the beginning of a new chapter of service — one driven not by authority but by personal conviction.
Living in Sector 49 of Chandigarh’s IAS-IPS Officers’ Cooperative Society, Sidhu became deeply concerned by the visible litter and waste piling up on his street. Despite repeatedly raising concerns with local civic authorities, he saw little action. Rather than resigning himself to disappointment, he chose to take matters into his own hands.
Each morning, often before dawn, he steps out with a broom, a bag, or even a borrowed rehri (hand-pulled cart) and begins cleaning the streets around him. What started as a solitary act soon drew the attention of his neighbours, who initially called him “crazy” but ultimately joined his humble efforts.
His simple philosophy is unmistakable: “There is no shame in cleaning. Cleanliness is next to godliness.” This belief has guided him for years and has made him a symbol of civic responsibility and personal initiative throughout the city.
Recognition as a National Inspiration
Sidhu’s unwavering commitment to a clean environment eventually gained traction beyond his neighbourhood. Videos and images of the retired DIG sweeping streets at dawn went viral on social media, attracting public admiration from citizens and public figures alike. His story was shared widely as a cultural moment — a reminder that action, not rhetoric, defines impact.
In January 2026, the Government of India announced that Inderjit Singh Sidhu had been selected for the Padma Shri award in the ‘Unsung Heroes’ category, formally recognizing his decades-long civic contribution. Out of hundreds of thousands of Indians, he stands among 113 awardees nationwide for that year.
The award is traditionally conferred by the President of India at a ceremonial function, celebrating individuals who have made distinguished contributions to society in diverse fields. For Sidhu, this recognition affirms that selfless service and grassroots action are as worthy as any celebrated achievement.
Philosophy and Impact
Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of Sidhu’s journey is his lack of self-promotion. He lives a simple life, eschewing media attention and even modern gadgets like mobile phones. His routine isn’t performed for praise, but for the joy of a cleaner community and the belief that every individual has a role to play in public welfare.
For many, his actions serve as a wake-up call to rethink civic engagement. In a world where public discourse often hinges on complaint and criticism, Sidhu’s example emphasizes participation and responsibility. Residents of Sector 49 and beyond have been inspired to pick up litter themselves, while civic bodies have gradually taken greater interest in maintaining public spaces.
Industry leaders and citizens alike have lauded Sidhu’s service. Anand Mahindra, a prominent industrialist, praised him on social media, highlighting how Sidhu’s simple, persistent actions underscore the truth that purpose doesn’t retire and service doesn’t age.
Legacy and the Broader Message
Inderjit Singh Sidhu’s life offers several lessons that reach far beyond Chandigarh:
- Responsibility transcends position: Even after a distinguished career in law enforcement, Sidhu chose to continue serving society at the most grassroots level.
- Age is only a number: At 88, while many seek comfort, he seeks purpose.
- Small actions can create big change: His daily broom has become a symbol of how consistent effort can inspire many.
- Service is timeless: Recognition at the national level came not for past accolades, but for ongoing, self-motivated work that uplifts the community.
The story of Inderjit Singh Sidhu is a testament to the idea that true leadership arises from humility, conviction, and the courage to act when others wait for change.
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