Shri Swaraj Kaushal (12 July 1952 – 4 December 2025) was a distinguished Indian lawyer, Senior Advocate of the Supreme Court, former Governor of Mizoram, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), and a respected figure in India’s political and legal sphere.
He was widely known for:
- Becoming India’s youngest-ever Governor (Mizoram) at 37
- Playing a key role in the Mizoram Peace Accord (1986)
- Serving as Senior Advocate in the Supreme Court
- Serving as Rajya Sabha MP from Haryana
- Being the husband of the former External Affairs Minister Late Sushma Swaraj
His contribution to India’s legal world and North-East peace-building remains unforgettable.
Early Life & Family Background
- Born: 12 July 1952
- Birthplace: Solan (then PEPSU, now Himachal Pradesh)
- Family: Born in a Brahmin household with simple cultural roots
Growing up in a value-driven family, Swaraj Kaushal developed an interest in law, public affairs, and the Constitution early in life, which later shaped his remarkable career.
Education & Student Life
Swaraj Kaushal completed his law education in North India, studying at institutions like:
- University of Delhi
- Panjab University, Chandigarh
During the Emergency (1975–77), he became actively associated with legal activism and civil liberty cases, which gave him national recognition as a sharp legal mind at a very young age.
Legal Career – Rise to Prominence
Baroda Dynamite Case
One of the major turning points in his early legal life was the historic Baroda Dynamite Case, where he defended leader George Fernandes. The case brought him into the national spotlight as a courageous and skilled young lawyer.
Work in Mizoram & Peace Negotiations
In the late 1970s, Swaraj Kaushal started working closely in legal matters related to the Mizo National Front (MNF). His expertise led him to become a constitutional advisor to MNF, where he played a crucial role in negotiations that ultimately shaped the Mizoram Peace Accord of 1986.
This was a landmark agreement that ended two decades of insurgency and restored peace in the region. His role in crafting the language, trust-building, and constitutional integration is considered one of his most memorable contributions.
Senior Advocate at Age 34
In 1986, he was designated as a Senior Advocate in the Supreme Court of India, one of the youngest to ever receive this honor — a recognition of his exceptional command over law and advocacy.
First Advocate General of Mizoram
Post the peace accord, Swaraj Kaushal became the first Advocate General of Mizoram, guiding the young state in legal and constitutional matters. He helped frame legal structures and contributed to stabilizing governance after years of unrest.
India’s Youngest Governor (1990)
On 8 February 1990, at the age of 37, Swaraj Kaushal was appointed Governor of Mizoram, making him the youngest Governor in India’s constitutional history.
As Governor, he:
- Strengthened peace and trust after decades of conflict
- Encouraged democratic development and institutional growth
- Acted as a bridge between the central government and local leadership
- Played a major role in long-term state integration and rehabilitation
His work is remembered as a balance of firmness, clarity and empathy.
Entry Into Politics – Rajya Sabha Member
In 1998, Swaraj Kaushal entered Parliamentary politics and became a Rajya Sabha MP from Haryana, associated with the Haryana Vikas Party. During his tenure, he raised issues related to:
- Constitutional justice
- Federal rights
- North-East development
- Legal reforms
Between 2000–2002, both he and Sushma Swaraj served in the Rajya Sabha simultaneously — one of the most admired political couples in Indian public life.
Personal Life – Marriage to Sushma Swaraj Ji
Swaraj Kaushal met Sushma Swaraj during their law college days at Panjab University. Their ideological differences never overshadowed their love. They married on 13 July 1975, during the Emergency period — a phase filled with political turbulence and personal courage.
Their companionship became an iconic example of mutual respect, trust, and partnership.
Children
- Daughter: Bansuri Swaraj
- Educated at Oxford University & Inner Temple
- Lawyer at the Supreme Court & the Delhi High Court
- Later entered active politics
After Sushma Swaraj’s Demise
Smt. Sushma Swaraj passed away on 6 August 2019, which profoundly affected Swaraj Kaushal ji.
In later years, he often shared emotional memories, unseen pictures, and stories of Sushma ji on social media — winning the hearts of millions. His presence on Twitter (X) was witty, dignified, and graceful.
Demise & National Condolences
On 4 December 2025, Swaraj Kaushal ji passed away in Delhi following a cardiac arrest. His loss was mourned across political, legal, and public platforms.
Leaders, lawyers, students, and citizens remembered him as:
- A constitutional expert
- A peace-maker
- A gentleman with a sharp intellect
- A devoted husband and father
- A dignified public servant
Major Achievements – At a Glance
| Achievement | Details |
| Youngest Governor in India | Mizoram (1990–1993) at age 37 |
| Senior Advocate | Supreme Court, designated at 34 |
| Mizoram Peace Accord | Key legal architect behind peace settlement |
| Advocate General | First Advocate General of Mizoram |
| Rajya Sabha MP | Represented Haryana (1998–2004) |
| Public Figure | Highly respected voice on legal, social and political issues |
Legacy
Swaraj Kaushal ji leaves behind a legacy built on:
1. Legal Excellence
A fearless advocate, master of constitutional law, and mentor to young lawyers.
2. Peace & Integration
His involvement in the Mizoram Peace Accord marks one of India’s most successful peace resolutions.
3. Public Life with Dignity
A man who led with intellect, humility, and grace — both as a Governor and MP.
4. Love & Partnership
His relationship with Sushma Swaraj remains an example of love rooted in equality and commitment.