Rouhit Karan Singh, the health services manager for Lautoka City Council, has been remembered as a significant influence in the lives of many. His passing on Monday surprised those who regarded him as an outspoken leader in the trade union community.
In a heartfelt eulogy delivered to over a hundred attendees at Churchill Park in Lautoka, Employment Minister Agni Deo Singh remarked on the rarity of individuals like Singh. He noted that even during his final moments, Singh was engaged in discussions regarding the employment of a worker who recently lost their job.
“You rarely encounter someone who positively impacts the lives of others,” he said. “He was very dear to me, referring to me as ‘father’ from the time he stepped into the role of a trade union leader. We collaborated for nearly twenty years. Rouhit was a humble and compassionate individual.”
Ajay Kumar, the special administrator of the council, described Singh as a foundational figure within the organization. Kumar highlighted Singh’s deep connections with market vendors and his commitment to addressing their concerns.
“He was a dedicated unionist who prioritized workers’ rights and approached issues with professionalism. Their challenges were truly his challenges,” Kumar stated. “His loss is not just felt by Lautoka City Council but by the entire nation.”
Singh started his career with the council in 1994 as a trainee health inspector and advanced to the position of Manager of Health Services, a role he held since 2009. In recognition of his exceptional work, he received the award for Most Outstanding Environmental Health Officer in the Local Government during the 29th AGM of the Fiji Institute of Environmental Health last year.
He was cremated at the Lovu Crematorium in Lautoka yesterday.