Veteran Journalist and Former Diplomat HK Dua Passes Away at 88

• HK Dua veteran journalist passed away in New Delhi at 88.
• HK Dua served as editor in chief of leading national newspapers.
• HK Dua also worked as Indian ambassador to Denmark.

India has lost one of its most respected voices in journalism and diplomacy. Veteran journalist and former diplomat HK Dua passed away in New Delhi on Wednesday at the age of 88.

Family members confirmed that HK Dua had been undergoing treatment in a hospital for the past three weeks due to health issues. He breathed his last on Wednesday afternoon bringing an end to a long and influential career.

Born on July 1 1937 HK Dua built a distinguished reputation in Indian journalism. Over several decades he held top editorial roles at some of the country’s most prominent newspapers. He served as editor in chief of Hindustan Times from 1987 to 1994 and later led Indian Express between 1994 and 1996.

Dua also worked as editorial adviser to Times of India from 1997 to 1998 and later to The Tribune from 2003 to 2009. Through his writing and leadership he played an important role in shaping public debate on national and international affairs.

Apart from journalism HK Dua contributed significantly to policy and diplomacy. He served as media adviser to former prime ministers Atal Bihari Vajpayee and HD Deve Gowda and was actively involved in discussions related to foreign policy and national security.

Between 2001 and 2003 HK Dua represented India as ambassador to Denmark. He also served as a member of the National Security Advisory Board and participated in several high level parliamentary committees including those related to external affairs and home affairs.

In recognition of his contributions he was honoured with the Padma Bhushan. Universities such as Panjab University and Kurukshetra University also conferred honorary Doctor of Literature degrees on him.

The final rites of HK Dua will be held on Thursday at the Lodhi Road cremation ground in New Delhi where family members friends and colleagues are expected to pay their last respects.