Wife of legendary athlete Milkha Singh passes away

Chandigarh, June 13 (IANS) Former Indian women volleyball team captain Nirmal Kaur, the wife of legendary Olympian Milkha Singh, died at a Mohali hospital on Sunday due to complications related to Covid-19 infection, doctors said.

She was 85 and is survived by her husband, a son, and three daughters.  Her son Jeev Milkha Singh is a renowned golfer.

"We are deeply saddened to inform you that Mrs Nirmal Milkha Singh passed away after a valiant battle against Covid at 4 p.m. today," a statement from the Milkha Singh family said.

Milkha Singh himself is being treated for Covid-related complications at the PGIMER here.

"Milkha Singh's health is fine and improving, but he is still in the ICU," said a spokesperson for the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) on Saturday.

Milkha Singh has been under the observation of a medical team comprising senior doctors of the institute since his hospitalisation on June 3.

"Our heart felt condolences on the sad demise of Mrs Nirmal Milkha Singh after battling with Covid-19," said PGIMER Director Jagat Ram in a statement.

"Widely known for her multiple achievements in the sports arena and her extensive philanthropic works, she will be fondly remembered for her accomplishments on and off the field," he added.

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Sunday condoled the demise of former Indian women national volleyball team captain Nirmal Milkha Singh (85).

In his condolence message, the Chief Minister said: "I am saddened to learn about the death of one of the iconic volleyball players who brought several laurels for the country thus making every Punjabi proud."

The remarkable services rendered by Nirmal Milkha Singh as Director of Sports for Women, Punjab, for promotion of sports would be ever remembered by one and all, he said.

He expressed his sorrow with the bereaved family, relatives and friends, the Chief Minister prayed to the almighty to give courage to bear the huge loss in this hour of grief and grant eternal peace to the departed soul.