Remembrance on His Death Anniversary
[ By Prof. S. S. Dogra ]
“A Noble Soul That Lives On”
Noble souls never truly depart; they continue to live through their values, their work and the lives they touch. Dr. Joginder Singh, IPS, former Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), was one such rare soul. On his death anniversary today, I remember him not merely as a towering figure in Indian law enforcement, but as my mentor for over two decades—a guide whose wisdom shaped my professional journey and my understanding of life itself.
“Leadership at the Helm of CBI (1990–1996)”
Joginder Singh served as Director of the CBI from 1990 to 1996, a period marked by turbulence, intense public scrutiny and defining challenges for the institution. Widely respected for his integrity, courage and professional rigor, he led the agency with an unwavering commitment to ethical governance and institutional independence. His tenure significantly strengthened public trust in the CBI at a time when accountability in public life was under sharp national focus.
“The Fodder Scam and Fearless Investigation”
One of the most defining moments of his career came in 1996, with the exposure of the infamous Fodder Scam (Chara Ghotala). Although the fraudulent activities had spanned the years 1990 to 1996, it was in 1996 that the case was formally unearthed and handed over to the CBI.
Joginder Singh assumed charge as CBI Director on 31 July 1996, and under his leadership the agency initiated decisive, systematic and independent investigations.
Between 1996 and 1997, the CBI:
Registered multiple FIRs across various treasuries
Conducted extensive raids and seizures
Uncovered a wide nexus of politicians, bureaucrats, and suppliers
Initiated arrests and prosecutions, including those involving then Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav
These investigations laid the legal and evidentiary foundation for trials and convictions in subsequent years. His leadership during this phase remains a defining moment that reinforced the CBI’s autonomy and credibility, reaffirming that the rule of law must prevail without fear or favour.
The First Interaction—and Two Watches”
It was during this very period that I first interacted with him professionally, soon after the exposure of the Fodder Scam. That first meeting remains etched in my memory for a reason beyond journalism.
Noticing that he wore two watches, I curiously asked,
“Sir, why do you wear two watches?”
He smiled warmly and replied with admiration,
“You are the first journalist who has asked me such a curious question.”
He then explained that one watch showed local time, while the other functioned as a stopwatch—a constant reminder of how much time he should devote to a person, a place, an event, or any activity.
“This is my method of time management,” he said calmly.
That seemingly simple answer revealed the disciplined yet deeply thoughtful mind behind the uniform. Years later, I felt humbled to discover that Dr. Joginder Singh mentioned this very incident in one of his books, a quiet acknowledgment that sincere curiosity builds lasting human connections.
From Professional Association to Personal Bond”
Over time, destiny brought us even closer. As neighbours in Nav Sansad Vihar Apartments, Dwarka, our professional association grew into a deep personal bond and friendship. He regularly contributed insightful columns to our news portal Dwarka Parichay, always encouraging young journalists to uphold ethics, balance, and social responsibility.
“A Mentor Beyond the Uniform”
I was fortunate to invite him as Chief Guest at several patriotic, educational, social, and sports events. One particularly memorable occasion was Farmers’ Day at the Krishi Jagran Magazine office at Green Park, when I was serving as its full-time Executive Editor. In the presence of Owner-Editor Dominic Sir, he motivated the entire editorial team with his trademark simplicity and clarity, leaving everyone deeply inspired.
For me, he was much more than a former CBI Director or a celebrated author and speaker—he was a mentor in the truest sense. From him, I learned invaluable life lessons: integrity, human values, empathy, discipline, and above all, simplicity with dignity. Even while holding the highest offices, humility remained the hallmark of his personality.
“His Final Public Appearance”
In 2015–2016, he suffered a major heart attack and underwent a stent procedure. Despite health challenges, his spirit remained indomitable. We stayed in touch, and he made his last public appearance at our International Career Seminar on “Law & Media”, held on 14 May 2016 at the National Law University—gracious, composed, and encouraging as always.
“A Personal Loss, A Permanent Presence”
On 3 February 2017, he left us physically, but his teachings and vision continue to flow in my veins. I had the honour of dedicating my debut book, “Media Can Do Wonders in Students’ Life,” to him, alongside my father—a small tribute to a man I respected like my own parent.
After attending the cremation at the Lodhi Road crematorium on 4th February 2017, I, along with my friend Sanjay Mishra, attended the condolence prayer meeting held at Rakabganj Gurudwara. Standing there, I could not hold back my tears. It was not merely the loss of a great officer—it was the parting of a mentor whose guidance had quietly shaped and directed my life for more than two decades.
After his passing, a prayer meeting was held at Rakabganj Gurudwara, which I attended with my friend Sanjay Mishra. Standing there, I could not control my tears. It was not merely the loss of a great officer—it was the departure of a mentor whose guidance had quietly shaped my life for over twenty years.
“Legacy That Endures”
Sardar Joginder Singh Ji (IPS)—former Director CBI, author, thinker, and mentor—may no longer be with us in person, but he remains an enduring source of inspiration for millions. I am proud to count myself among them.
We lost a great human being whose life was an embodiment of integrity, discipline, compassion and grace.
He is gone, yet never gone.
His legacy lives on—in institutions he strengthened,
in minds he enlightened,
and in hearts he touched.
Rest in peace, my mentor.
