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Journalism of Courage
Inderjit Singh Sidhu, 88, is winning plaudits by leading a cleanliness drive all by himself. A video of the retired Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from the 1964 batch, picking up garbage from the streets of his Sector 49 locality in Chandigarh, emerged on social media, earning praise from several public figures, including Anand Mahindra, chairman of Mahindra Group.
The viral video shows Sidhu picking up litter from the streets, collecting the garbage on a cart, and pulling it along the road as the dawn breaks. In an inspiring post, Mahindra highlighted that Sidhu cleans the street every morning at 6 am. “This clip which was shared with me is about Shri Inder Jit Singh Sidhu of Chandigarh. 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,” the post read.
Mahindra further shared that Sidhu was unhappy with the ‘low rank’ Chandigarh secured in the Swachh Survekshan listing. “He says he wasn’t happy with the ‘low rank’ Chandigarh got in the Swachh Surekshan listing. But instead of complaining, he chooses action. Each piece of trash he clears is more than just litter removed. It’s a statement. A quiet, persistent belief in a better world. A belief in living with meaning, regardless of age or recognition,” the business tycoon wrote.
“In a world often obsessed with youth and speed, his slow but steady footsteps tell us that Purpose doesn’t retire. Service doesn’t age. A Salute to this quiet warrior of the streets,” he added.
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The post quickly gained traction, garnering support and applause. “He proves that true service needs no title or spotlight. His quiet dedication is a reminder that real change begins with action, not complaints. Salute to his spirit,” a user wrote. “Such a powerful example. Real change doesn’t need power or position—just heart and consistency. Big respect to him,” another user commented.
