‘A Statesman Bids Farewell’: Nation Mourns the Passing of Shivraj Patil

December 12, 2025

New Delhi: Leaders across the political spectrum on Friday mourned the passing of former Union Home Minister and veteran Congress stalwart Shivraj Patil, remembering him as a dignified statesman who served the nation with integrity and unwavering dedication. Patil, 90, passed away at his Latur residence ‘Devghar’ after a brief illness.

Cross-Party Leaders Recall His Grace and Statesmanship

NCP (Sharad Pawar) MP Supriya Sule reflected on the long association between her party chief, Sharad Pawar, and Patil. “For many years, Sharad Pawar and Shivraj Patil worked together… He has left behind a great legacy… The country has lost a very dignified leader. Today, on behalf of my party and family, I pay him heartfelt tribute,” she said.

Congress MP Sukhdeo Bhagat described Patil as a towering and disciplined figure. “He was certainly a very senior and disciplined leader… Whenever a person of such stature, who has dedicated their entire life to a great cause, leaves us, it is deeply felt. Our condolences go out to the entire family,” he added.

Admired Across Maharashtra for His Principles

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Bhaskar Jadhav expressed deep sorrow, praising Patil’s lifelong commitment to public service. “He served for many years in Maharashtra and in the nation’s Parliament. I always admired his dedication to work and principles,” Jadhav said.

Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar highlighted Patil’s invaluable contributions. “Former Lok Sabha Speaker Shivraj Patil’s passing is deeply saddening. He played a significant role in bringing recognition to Maharashtra during his tenure. The loss of such a distinguished leader is a great sorrow for both the nation and the state,” he noted.

A Distinguished Career Spanning Decades

A seasoned parliamentarian, Patil served as Union Home Minister (2004–2008) and earlier as Lok Sabha Speaker (1991–1996). He later held the offices of Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh from 2010 to 2015.

He is survived by his son Shailesh Patil, daughter-in-law Archana Patil — a BJP leader — and two granddaughters. His passing marks the end of a remarkable public life that left a lasting imprint on India’s political and administrative landscape.