At 88, retired IPS officer Inderjit Singh Sidhu has been awarded the Padma Shri under the ‘Unsung Heroes’ category in the Republic Day 2026 honours for his extraordinary civic action waking up each morning at 6 am to sweep and collect litter from the streets of Sector 49, Chandigarh, with a broom and a simple cart after years of inaction by civic authorities.

What began as a solitary effort has caught national attention, inspired neighbours to join him, earned praise from public figures including industrialist Anand Mahindra, and highlighted wider conversations about civic responsibility, cleanliness rankings and individual initiative. Officials have described his work as emblematic of service beyond formal duties and lauded his enduring dedication to public welfare.

City Beautiful’s Quiet Custodian

Inderjit Singh Sidhu, a retired Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Punjab Police, left formal service in 1996 after a distinguished career spanning decades. Yet, it is his post-retirement life that has captured the nation’s heart.

For more than a decade, Sidhu has taken to the streets long before dawn to sweep, gather litter and transport waste in a humble rehri (handcart) through the lanes of his neighbourhood in Sector 49, a residential area of Chandigarh often referred to as the “City Beautiful.”

Residents say Sidhu’s routine begins at about 6 am daily, regardless of weather or season, driven not by duty or obligation but by conscience. “I like a clean place, so I try to clean,” he told news agency ANI in earlier interviews. “There is no shame in cleaning. Cleanliness is next to godliness.” His words echo a simple philosophy that has now made him a household name across India.

Sidhu’s actions drew viral attention on social media last year when a video showing him diligently pushing a cart full of trash went viral, prompting widespread admiration online. Among the millions who responded was Anand Mahindra, chairman of the Mahindra Group, who shared the video with praise, calling him a “quiet warrior of the streets” and observing that “purpose doesn’t retire; service doesn’t age.” His post highlighted the deeper message in Sidhu’s daily efforts each piece of trash removed is “more than just litter,” but “a statement a belief in living with meaning.”

From Solo Act to Symbol of Civic Duty

Sidhu’s journey as a cleanliness crusader began after repeated attempts to raise the issue of litter and civic neglect with local authorities went unanswered. Despite having once held one of the top policing ranks in the state, he grew frustrated seeing garbage pile up around his neighbourhood. Rather than waiting for others to act, he took responsibility into his own hands.

In the early days, neighbours and passers-by were puzzled or even bemused by the sight of an elderly man with a cart and broom navigating the streets. Some reportedly called him “crazy.” But Sidhu persisted, undeterred by ridicule or indifference.

Over time, his consistency shifted perceptions. Residents began to assist in small ways walking alongside him, encouraging others, and even lending a hand in neighbourhood clean-ups. Family members also grew involved, turning what began as a solitary endeavour into a community-driven movement rooted in collective responsibility.

Officials have noted that this groundswell reflects a broader shift in how citizens are engaging with goals of cleanliness and public welfare. Representatives from civic bodies and government ministries, in congratulating Sidhu on his award, highlighted his work as a powerful example of how individual initiative can inspire wider public participation and reinforce national cleanliness missions like the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.

Despite Chandigarh’s reputation for cleanliness, Sidhu himself has pointed to the city’s second place ranking in the Swachh Survekshan 2024–25 survey as one of his motivations for action. He has said that if foreign cities can maintain spotless streets, so can Indian cities and that civic pride and personal habits are essential to achieving that standard.

Recognition, Reaction and Reflection

On the eve of Republic Day 2026, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs included Sidhu among 113 Padma awardees, with 45 selected in the ‘Unsung Heroes’ category a list that celebrated grassroots changemakers from across India. National media and regional outlets across the country promptly shared the news of his recognition, bringing renewed attention to his decades-long service.

Yet, even receiving one of India’s highest civilian honours did not slow Sidhu’s routine. Reports say he learned of the award on the morning of 26 January and continued his work as usual, valuing consistency over celebration. In past interviews, he has waved off accolades, saying that cleanliness is not a task for recognition but simply a natural responsibility of every citizen.

Public reaction to his story has been mixed but passionate. While many praise his dedication and are inspired to become more responsible in their own behaviour, others on social media have used his example to critique civic infrastructure and question why an individual should shoulder what some see as governmental duty.

Regardless of the perspective, Sidhu’s actions have sparked a broader conversation on civic engagement, public services and the role of citizens beyond passive compliance.

The Logical Indian’s Perspective

At The Logical Indian, we see Inderjit Singh Sidhu’s life and work not merely as a human-interest story, but as a testament to active citizenship, empathy and social responsibility. His consistency over years quietly and without expectation challenges us to rethink our own relationships with shared spaces, neighbours, and community values.

Rather than waiting for authority or accolades, Sidhu chose action and transformed a simple practice into a meaningful example of collective good. In an age where public discourse often defaults to blame or cynicism, his humility and purpose offer a model of positive engagement and patient perseverance.