By The Sampadak Express
Kameshwar Chaupal, a prominent figure in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement and a trustee of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, passed away at the age of 68. He breathed his last at the Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in Delhi, where he had been undergoing treatment for kidney-related ailments. Despite receiving a kidney donation from his daughter, his health had been steadily declining in the past few days.
Chaupal’s passing marks the end of a chapter in the long and storied history of the Ram Mandir movement, where he was revered as the “Pratham Karsevak” (first volunteer). As a central figure in the campaign to build the Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir in Ayodhya, his contributions were instrumental. In 1989, Chaupal had the significant honour of laying the first brick for the Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir during a ceremony that would become a defining moment in the movement.
A Life Dedicated to the Ram Mandir Movement
Born in Supaul district, Bihar, Kameshwar Chaupal’s association with the Ram Janmabhoomi movement began in the 1980s. In 1982, he formally joined the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP), a Hindu nationalist organization, and by 1989, he was serving as the state in-charge for Bihar. Under his leadership, the Ram Shila campaign mobilized support across villages in India, with each village contributing a brick and a small donation of Rs. 1.25 for the construction of the Mandir. Chaupal’s involvement in the movement resonated with a message of inclusivity, as he represented a marginalized community in the movement, which was seen as a symbol of unity across different sections of society.
Chaupal’s dedication was most famously reflected in 1989, when he had the privilege of laying the first ‘Ram Shila’ (brick) for the foundation of the Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir on November 9. This event became a historic milestone in the construction of the temple, which has remained a central religious and political issue in India. His act symbolized the beginning of the Mandir’s long journey toward completion and was a moment of immense pride for his supporters.
Political Career and Public Recognition
In addition to his work with the VHP, Chaupal also had a career in politics. He joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 1991 and contested parliamentary elections, though he faced setbacks in his electoral attempts. Despite these challenges, Chaupal remained an influential leader within the BJP and continued to advocate for the Ram Janmabhoomi cause. He served two terms as a Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament (MP) from 2002 to 2014, during which time he earned recognition for his contributions to the Ram Mandir cause and his tireless social work.
Chaupal was also a former Member of the Legislative Council (MLC) in Bihar. His political journey saw him rise to prominence not just as a party leader, but also as a symbolic figure representing the aspirations of the Hindu community in India.
Condolences Pour In
Following the news of his death, leaders from various political and social organizations expressed their deep grief and paid tribute to Chaupal’s legacy. The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) shared a heartfelt message on social media, recalling Chaupal’s pivotal role in the Ram Mandir movement and his invaluable contributions to Hindu religious and social causes. The VHP also remembered his service as the Central Vice President of the organization and his leadership as the President of the Bihar State chapter.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed his condolences, praising Chaupal’s lifelong dedication to religious and social service. In a post on social media, he wrote, “The demise of Shri Kameshwar Chaupal Ji, Central Vice President of Vishva Hindu Parishad, member of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, and great Ram devotee, who laid the first stone for the construction of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir, is extremely sad. His entire life was dedicated to religious and social work. Humble tribute to him! I pray to Bhagwan Shri Ram to give a place to the departed soul in his lotus feet and provide strength to the bereaved family to bear this immense loss.”
A Legacy of Service and Sacrifice
Kameshwar Chaupal’s life was defined by his unwavering commitment to the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, his service to society, and his political contributions. His legacy will continue to inspire many, as he is remembered for being a pioneer in the fight for the Ram Mandir, an advocate for unity across communities, and a tireless worker for religious causes. His passing leaves a significant void in the ongoing journey of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, but his contributions will always be etched in the history of modern India.
As tributes continue to pour in from all corners, Chaupal’s family and the community at large are left to mourn the loss of a leader, a warrior for religious causes, and a symbol of dedication and perseverance.
