Delhi: December 12:
Bhubaneswar: December 12:
Shivraj Patil, a senior Congress politician and former Home Minister, died at the age of 90 at his residence following a brief illness, as reported by family sources. He served seven terms as a Member of Parliament (MP) representing Latur, Maharashtra, and held prominent positions, including Speaker of the Lok Sabha and key portfolios in the Union Cabinet, during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government.
Patil was recognised for his extensive parliamentary service, representing Latur for seven terms, and for holding senior positions, including Speaker of the Lok Sabha, Minister of State for Defence, and Union Home Minister.
Born on 12 October 1935 in Latur district, Maharashtra, Patil studied at Osmania University and received legal training before entering public service.
Patil began his political career in the Maharashtra Assembly, serving as Speaker from 1978 to 1980, before being elected to the Lok Sabha from Latur in 1980. He subsequently served seven terms, establishing his prominence as a Congress leader from Marathwada.
Within the Union government, Patil served as Minister of State for Defence during the 1980s, and later as Deputy Speaker and Speaker of the Lok Sabha in the 1990s.
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today condoled the passing of Shri Shivraj Patil, describing him as an experienced leader who devoted his life to public service.
In his message, the Prime Minister said he was saddened by the demise of Shri Patil, who served the nation in various capacities—including as MLA, MP, Union Minister, Speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, and Speaker of the Lok Sabha—during his long and distinguished public life. Shri Patil was known for his commitment to societal welfare and his steadfast dedication to democratic values.
The Prime Minister recalled his many interactions with Shri Patil over the years, noting that their most recent meeting took place a few months ago when Shri Patil visited his residence.
