Chandigarh, June 30, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Celebrations swept across Chandigarh after Sardar Inderjeet Singh Sidhu, a retired Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the 1964 batch and former Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police, was conferred the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honours, for his extraordinary contribution to public cleanliness and civic awareness.
Fondly known as Chandigarh’s ‘Broom Warrior’ and ‘Swachhata Doot’, Sidhu has spent years personally cleaning roads, markets and public spaces, inspiring thousands to treat cleanliness as a shared civic responsibility rather than merely a government duty.
Residents, members of social organisations and senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders felicitated the Padma Shri awardee with a Siropa (robe of honour), bouquets and sweets, describing the recognition as a proud moment for Chandigarh and the nation.
From Senior Police Officer to People’s ‘Broom Warrior’
Unlike many who spend their retirement away from public life, the former DIG chose an entirely different path.
After an illustrious career in the Indian Police Service, Sidhu dedicated himself to cleaning public spaces with his own hands, often carrying a broom through Chandigarh’s streets. His unique mission, driven solely by civic responsibility, gradually transformed him into one of the city’s most recognised public figures and eventually earned him nationwide recognition as the ‘Broom Warrior’.
‘People Mocked Me, But I Never Stopped’
Recalling the early days of his campaign, an emotional Sidhu said the journey was far from easy.
“When I first stepped onto the streets with a broom, many people laughed at me and ridiculed my efforts. I was mocked repeatedly, but I never allowed criticism to weaken my resolve. Today, this honour belongs to everyone who believes that public service has no retirement.”
He said the Padma Shri was recognition of years of selfless service towards society.
PM Modi’s Words Became a Source of Inspiration
Sidhu also recalled his interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying the Prime Minister warmly appreciated his work.
According to Sidhu, PM Modi told him:
“Inderjeet Ji, you have cleaned the entire Chandigarh.”
He said those words strengthened his determination to continue his cleanliness campaign.
‘The Nation is Proud of Him’
BJP State Secretary Amit Rana said Sidhu had redefined public service.
He said whether it was the scorching summer heat of 44–45 degrees Celsius, freezing winter mornings or late-night hours, Sidhu continued his cleanliness campaign without expecting recognition.
“Unaffected by taunts and ridicule, Sidhu Ji transformed Chandigarh through his commitment. Today, he is not just Chandigarh’s Swachhata Doot but a source of inspiration for the entire country,” Rana said.
A Viral Video That Brought National Attention
BJP leader Advocate Gaurav Goyal said a short video showcasing Sidhu’s work unexpectedly became the turning point in bringing his efforts to national attention.
He said the video travelled across social media, reached the highest levels of government and ultimately contributed to recognition of Sidhu’s remarkable grassroots work.
Describing Sidhu as a true Karmyogi, Goyal said the Padma Shri honoured years of silent and selfless public service.
City Joins the Celebration
A large number of residents and representatives of social organisations participated in the felicitation ceremony.
Among those present were Ganesh Jha, Sheenu Aggarwal, Vijay Bali, Rakesh Sharma, Rohit Sharma, Sushil Aggarwal, Vagish Dixit, Ashwani Sharma, Mohinder Nirala, Vishal, Gagan Jindal and Varinder, besides several prominent citizens.
Participants described the honour as recognition not only of Sidhu’s extraordinary dedication but also of Chandigarh’s long-standing culture of civic responsibility and public participation.
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