Yamunanagar: The state of Haryana remembered the life and service of M.L. Verma, a distinguished Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, on the occasion of his 34th death anniversary. Verma, who was tragically killed in a terrorist attack along with his family in 1992, is commemorated every year for his service, sacrifice, and integrity as a public servant.
Early Life and Administrative Career
M.L. Verma hailed from Lalhari Kalan village in the Yamunanagar district of Haryana. Known for his honest and clean administrative image, he rose through the ranks of the IAS and became a trusted administrator of the Haryana government.
In 1992, Verma was serving as the Additional Principal Secretary to the then Chief Minister, Bhajan Lal. In this role, he was responsible for representing Haryana’s position on critical interstate issues, including disputes regarding Chandigarh and the construction of the Sutlej-Yamuna Link (SYL) canal.
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Tragic Martyrdom
On February 1, 1992, M.L. Verma, his wife Preeti, their two sons Gaurav and Saurabh, along with their driver and a gunman, were killed in a terrorist attack while traveling to their ancestral village, Lalhari Kalan. Reports identified the militants as associated with Babbar Khalsa.
Since then, Verma has been remembered as a martyr in Haryana, and his death is observed as a symbol of sacrifice and anti-terrorism resilience.
Tributes and Commemorations
On Sunday, multiple ceremonies were held across the state to honor his memory. The main function took place at Lalhari Kalan, organized by his family and local officials. Sanjeev Verma, M.L. Verma’s younger brother and also an IAS officer serving as Ambala Divisional Commissioner, presided over the event.
Similar commemorative gatherings were conducted in Kurukshetra, Jind, Karnal, Yamunanagar, and Kaithal, with senior officials and local dignitaries paying homage.
Several memorials and parks, including ML Verma Park in Panipat, have been established across Haryana to honor his service and legacy.
Legacy and Family
Anti-Terrorism Day: February 1 is observed in Haryana as Anti-Terrorism Day in remembrance of Verma’s sacrifice.
- Family Legacy: Following the tragedy, his younger brother Sanjeev Verma joined the IAS on compassionate grounds and later served as Commissioner of the Rohtak division.
- Annual Tributes: Functions are held every year at Lalhari Kalan and other locations to remember M.L. Verma’s administrative contributions and his dedication to the state.
M.L. Verma is remembered not only for his administrative acumen but also for his unwavering commitment to public service, leaving an enduring legacy in Haryana.
