Former Union Home Minister and senior Congress leader Shivraj Patil passed away on Friday at the age of 90 in his hometown of Latur, Maharashtra, after a brief illness.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled his death, describing Patil as an experienced leader who devoted his life to public service.
“Saddened by the passing of Shri Shivraj Patil Ji. 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. He was passionate about contributing to the welfare of society. I have had many interactions with him over the years, the most recent one being when he came to my residence a few months ago. My thoughts are with his family in this sad hour. Om Shanti,” the Prime Minister wrote on X.
President Droupadi Murmu expressed grief, highlighting Patil’s long public life and his prominent roles in government.
“In the demise of senior political leader Shri Shivraj Patil Ji, we have lost a prominent public figure. During his long public life, he held many important positions including those of Lok Sabha Speaker, Union Minister, Governor and longstanding Member of Parliament. My heartfelt condolences to his family, well-wishers and admirers,” she said on X.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah paid tribute as well, saying, “Saddened by the demise of former Union Minister Shivraj Patil Chakurkar Ji. With a career spanning several decades, Patil Ji was known for his vast knowledge of public affairs and his dedicated service. Heartfelt condolences to his family members and well-wishers.”
A former Speaker of the Lok Sabha, Patil was elected to the Latur Lok Sabha seat seven times. He served as Union Home Minister from 2004 to 2008 and was the 10th Speaker of the Lok Sabha between 1991 and 1996. From 2010 to 2015, he served as Governor of Punjab and Administrator of the Union Territory of Chandigarh.
Patil began his political journey at the grassroots as the municipal council chief of Latur, before being elected as an MLA in the early 1970s. Known for his calm demeanour and dignified conduct, Patil was respected across party lines.
Fluent in Marathi, English and Hindi, Patil was admired for his deep reading, analytical thinking and clarity in communication. Party leaders often described him as one of the most respected parliamentarians of his generation, with a strong command over constitutional affairs.
Patil is survived by his son, Shailesh Patil, daughter-in-law Archana — a BJP leader — and two granddaughters.
