Former Union minister Shivraj Patil passes away at 90; funeral on Saturday

Patil was the Union Home Minister from 2004 to 2008, when he resigned after the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack. He had faced backlash for appearing in three different suits on the night of the 26/11 attacks. Defending himself, Patil had said that people should criticise policy, not clothes.Patil was the Governor of Punjab and also served as Administrator of the Union Territory of Chandigarh from 2010 to 2015.In 2022, speaking at a book launch, he courted controversy for claiming that the concept of “jihad” was present not just in Islam but also in the Bhagavad Gita and Christianity.In March 2025, Patil had met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi with his family.Calling Patil a distinguished parliamentarian and statesman, Fadnavis said his demise was deeply saddening.Patil served in several key roles, leaving an indelible mark through his exemplary public service, said Fadnavis.As Speaker of the Lok Sabha, he initiated and supported several innovative parliamentary practices, earning respect across the political spectrum, said the CM. “Renowned for his integrity, deep knowledge and firm leadership, Patil commanded a place of esteem in Indian politics. His death has created a void in the country’s political and social leadership,” he added.Sharad Pawar said Patil played a significant role in the politics of both Maharashtra and the nation, harmoniously blending the Congress ideology with his unwavering commitment to resolving people’s issues.”In every position he held, his work consistently reflected justice for the common man,” said the NCP (SP) chief.Former CM Ashok Chavan, who hails from neighbouring Nanded, described Patil as a :guiding figure, like a father.””For me, the death of Shivraj Patil Chakurkar is a great personal loss. He shared a brotherly bond with (my father) Dr Shankarrao Chavan, and for many years, our families have shared a deep relationship,” he said.In Patil’s death, the country has lost a cultured and scholarly personality, Ajit Pawar said, calling the Congress leader a “symbol of simplicity and ethical conduct.”Highlighting Patil’s initiatives during his stint as the Lok Sabha Speaker, Pawar said he pushed for modernisation and computerisation of the House. “The Outstanding Parliamentarian Award was also started during his tenure,” said Pawar in a statement.NCP (SP) MP Supriya Sule mourned Patil’s death, saying his passing marks the loss of a leader with vast parliamentary experience.Latur MLA Amit Deshmukh also offered his tributes to Patil.



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