At an age when most are slowing down, 88-year-old retired DIG Inder Jit Singh Sidhu is rewriting the script on civic duty and public service. Each morning at 6 am, he steps out not for a leisurely stroll but to push a rehri, diligently collecting litter strewn across the streets of Chandigarh's Sector 49.

Disheartened by the rising filth and apathy, Sidhu had long filed complaints with local authorities—only to be met with indifference. Rather than waiting for action that never came, he rolled up his sleeves and took charge. “Cleanliness is next to godliness,” he says with conviction, embodying the very spirit of the quote.

Initially mocked and labelled “mad” by onlookers, the veteran officer persevered, undeterred by social judgment. But something remarkable happened—his silent protest started speaking volumes. Local residents, inspired by his unwavering dedication, began supporting his efforts. Some joined in, others started taking better care of their surroundings, and his initiative slowly turned into a community movement.

Today, Sidhu is not just seen as a retired police officer, but as a symbol of accountability and courage. His message is simple yet profound: change begins with us. At an age when many retire from responsibilities, he has taken up a new mission that makes others rethink their own civic sense.

In a time where headlines often focus on political drama or social unrest, Sidhu’s story shines as a beacon of hope—proof that action, no matter how small, can spark transformation. Chandigarh may have found its most unlikely yet most impactful sanitation ambassador.