An Officer’s Legacy Still in Action
Inderjit Singh Sidhu, an 88-year-old retired IPS officer from the 1964 batch, is setting an inspiring example of civic duty in Chandigarh. Known for his discipline and dedication, Inderjit Singh Sidhu Chandigarh efforts now include personally cleaning the streets of his Sector 49 locality every morning.
He retired as Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Punjab Police in 1996 and now resides in the IAS-IPS Officers’ Cooperative Society. Troubled by the growing litter, Sidhu began a daily 6 a.m. clean-up routine. He sweeps the roads, picks up trash, and pushes a hand cart to collect waste.
Here is the viral video of DIG Inderjit Singh Sidhu you can watch and leave a commment:
A Career of Discipline and Service
Sidhu served for 37 years. He held important roles such as DIG Patiala Range and Commissioner of Ludhiana. Throughout his career, he was known for his leadership and discipline. He also earned several police commendations and a gallantry medal for work against organised smuggling in Punjab.
From Skepticism to Support
Despite his age, Sidhu remains energetic and focused. “Cleanliness is not someone else’s job—it’s ours,” he says.
Initially, some neighbours were skeptical. However, his dedication soon changed opinions. Many residents have now started taking better care of their surroundings. Some even join him in the morning.
A Ripple Effect in the Community
What started as a solo act is turning into a small civic movement. Youth from nearby blocks now volunteer with him. A few RWAs have also contacted authorities, asking for his work to be officially recognised under the Swachh Bharat Mission.
More Than Just a Morning Routine
Sidhu isn’t doing this for applause. “It’s about self-respect and respect for the community,” he says. His story has gone viral on social media. People across India are praising him as a real-life hero and a symbol of everyday patriotism.
Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “He says he wasn’t happy with the ‘low rank’ Chandigarh got in the Swachh Survekshan listing,” Mahindra posted. “But instead of complaining, he chooses action…a quiet, persistent belief in a better world…Purpose doesn’t retire. Service doesn’t age.”
He further added: “Apparently, every morning at 6 am, in the quiet streets of Chandigarh’s Sector 49, this 88-year-old retired police officer begins his day in service. Each piece of trash he clears is more than just litter removed. It’s a statement… a belief in living with meaning, regardless of age or recognition.”
Even as Chandigarh competes for top spots in national cleanliness surveys, Sidhu’s routine reminds us that real change starts with personal responsibility.
At 88, Inderjit Singh Sidhu may be retired—but clearly, he’s not done serving.
