Shivraj Patil, Former Union Home Minister, Passes Away at 90

Veteran Congress leader and former Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil passed away at his residence in Latur, Maharashtra, at the age of 90. According to family members and news agency PTI, he succumbed to a brief illness on Friday. He is survived by his son Shailesh Patil, daughter-in-law Archana Patil, a BJP leader, and two granddaughters.

Condolences from National Leaders

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Pays Tribute

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, remembering Patil as a dedicated public servant passionate about societal welfare. Posting on X, he said, “He was an experienced leader, having served as MLA, MP, Union Minister, Speaker of the Maharashtra Assembly, as well as the Lok Sabha during his long years in public life. My thoughts are with his family in this sad hour. Om Shanti.”

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Remembers Patil

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described Patil as a seasoned leader who served the nation in multiple capacities and contributed significantly to India’s progress. “My thoughts are with his family and well-wishers in this sad hour. Om Shanti,” he added.

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar’s Tribute

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar remembered Patil as a “dignified, cultured, and scholarly personality” whose career set a benchmark in public service. He highlighted Patil’s simplicity, ethical approach, and moral values, noting his distinguished roles as Lok Sabha Speaker, Union Minister, Maharashtra Assembly Speaker and Deputy Speaker, and Governor of Punjab.

Early Life and Political Career

Born on October 12, 1935, in Chakur village, Latur district, Maharashtra, Shivraj Patil began his political journey at the local level. He served as municipal council chief of Latur before being elected twice to the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly from 1972 to 1979. During this period, he held crucial roles including Deputy Minister for Law and Judiciary, Irrigation, Protocol, and later Deputy Speaker and Speaker of the Maharashtra Assembly.

Rise to National Politics

Patil entered national politics in 1980, winning the Latur Lok Sabha seat, which he retained for seven consecutive terms until 2004. Early in his parliamentary career, he served on the Joint Committee on Salaries and Allowances of Members of Parliament, eventually becoming its chairperson.

Over the decades, he managed numerous portfolios as Minister of State, contributing to ministries including Defence, Commerce, Science and Technology, Electronics, Space, Ocean Development, Personnel and Training, Civil Aviation, and Tourism.

Key Roles and Contributions

• 10th Speaker of the Lok Sabha (1991–1996)
• Union Home Minister (2004–2008), resigned after the 26/11 Mumbai attacks taking moral responsibility
• Governor of Punjab and Administrator of the Union Territory of Chandigarh (2010–2015)

Patil’s dedication to public service and ethical leadership earned him respect across political lines.

Legacy

His autobiography, Odyssey of My Life, chronicles his long and distinguished journey in Indian public life, offering insights into decades of parliamentary and administrative experience.

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Sorit Chaudhary

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