Veteran Leader Shivraj Patil Passes Away at 91
Veteran Indian politician Shivraj Patil passed away on Friday at the age of 91 after a prolonged illness. He had been receiving medical treatment in a hospital in Latur, where he breathed his last, according to official reports.
A senior leader of the Indian National Congress, Patil had a distinguished political career spanning several decades. He served in key constitutional and government roles, including as Speaker of the Lok Sabha and as Union Home Minister. Known for his deep parliamentary experience and leadership, Patil was a respected figure in national politics.
Early Political Journey
Shivraj Patil entered the national political arena in 1980, winning his first election to the Seventh Lok Sabha. Over the next 24 years, he was re-elected to the Lok Sabha seven times, representing the Latur constituency in Maharashtra. During the 1980s and 1990s, Patil served on the Joint Committee on Salaries and Allowances of Members of Parliament, eventually becoming its Chairman. He also held the position of Minister of State for Defence under the leadership of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
Tenure as Home Minister
One of the most prominent phases of Patil’s career was his tenure as Union Home Minister during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government from 2004 to 2008. He played a key role in shaping internal security policies during a critical period in India’s history.
In the aftermath of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, Patil resigned from his post on 30 November 2008, accepting moral responsibility for the lapses in the country’s security apparatus. His resignation was widely noted as a rare instance of political accountability in India’s recent history.
Legacy and Contributions
Shivraj Patil’s long and eventful career reflected his enduring presence in Indian politics. Elected multiple times from Latur, he was known for his deep understanding of parliamentary procedures, legislative affairs, and governance. Leaders across party lines remembered him for his commitment to public service and his role in India’s democratic institutions.
Patil is survived by his family and a legacy that remains etched in the annals of India’s political history.
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