Former home minister and senior Congress leader Shivraj Patil died at the age of 90 on Friday morning at his residence in Latur, Maharashtra. Family members told PTI that he had been unwell for the past few days and passed away at his home, Devghar. His funeral is likely to take place on Saturday.

Early Life and Political Rise

Born on October 12, 1935, in Chakur village of Latur, Patil became one of the most influential leaders in Indian politics. He began his public career as president of the Latur municipality from 1966 to 1970. He then entered the Maharashtra assembly, serving two terms as MLA and holding important responsibilities, including deputy speaker and later speaker between 1977 and 1979.

Long Parliamentary Career

Patil entered national politics after winning the Latur Lok Sabha seat in 1980. He went on to represent the constituency for seven consecutive terms until 2004. From 1991 to 1996, he served as the 10th Speaker of the Lok Sabha. Although he lost the 2004 election to BJP’s Rupatai Patil Nilangekar, Patil later served in the Rajya Sabha as well.

Between 1980 and 1990, he was part of the Joint Committee on Salaries and Allowances of Members of Parliament and eventually became its chairperson.

Roles in the Union Government

During his long career, Patil handled several major Union portfolios, including defence, commerce, and science and technology. He served as India’s home minister from 2004 to 2008. He resigned on November 30, 2008, following the Mumbai terror attacks.

From 2010 to 2015, he served as the governor of Punjab and administrator of Chandigarh.

Patil is survived by his son Shailesh Patil, daughter-in-law Archana, and two granddaughters.

Leaders Pay Tribute

Offering his condolences, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was “saddened” by Patil’s death. “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… My thoughts are with his family in this sad hour. Om Shanti,” the PM wrote on X.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said he shared a “close bond” with Patil. “A statesman of great dignity, Shri Patil served the nation with distinction… His demise is a profound loss for the Congress Party and for all who admired his integrity, composure and commitment to public service,” he said.

Rahul Gandhi described Patil’s passing as “extremely heartbreaking and an irreparable loss for the party.” He added that “his dedication to public service and his contributions to the nation will always be remembered.”