Former Home Minister Shivraj Patil passes away; condolences pour in

Former Union Home Minister and veteran Congress leader Shivraj Patil died on Friday at the age of 90. The senior Congressman, who had been unwell for some time, breathed his last at his residence in Latur, Maharashtra. Patil leaves behind a substantial legacy in Indian politics and is survived by his son Shailesh Patil, daughter-in-law Archana, and two granddaughters.

Patil held several key positions during his long public life. He notably served as the Union Home Minister in the UPA government under Prime Minister Manmohan Singh from 2004 to 2008. His tenure in this role concluded when he submitted his resignation following the tragic 26/11 Mumbai terrorist attacks, taking moral responsibility for the security failures. Earlier in his career, Patil also served as the Speaker of the 10th Lok Sabha from 1991 to 1996 and was later appointed as the Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh from 2010 to 2015.

Leaders across the political spectrum expressed their condolences on his demise. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sadness, acknowledging Patil as an experienced leader who was passionate about social welfare and had served in many important capacities, including as an MLA, MP, Union Minister, and both State Assembly and Lok Sabha Speaker. President Draupadi Murmu, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and numerous Congress leaders, including Sonia Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and Mallikarjun Kharge, also paid tribute to the veteran statesman.

"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," the PM wrote. "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," he further added.

President Draupadi Murmu wrote, "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 a longstanding Member of Parliament. My heartfelt condolences to his family, well-wishers and admirers."