Congress leader and former Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil passes away at 90

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. He was passionate about contributing to the welfare of… pic.twitter.com/muabyf7Va8

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 12, 2025

Survived by his son Shailesh Patil, daughter-in-law Archana, a BJP leader and two granddaughters, Shivraj Patil leaves behind a family deeply rooted in public life.

Patil’s long and distinguished career saw him occupy several top positions. He served as Union Home Minister from 2004 to 2008 and earlier as the 10th Speaker of the Lok Sabha between 1991 and 1996.

Later, from 2010 to 2015, he took on the roles of Governor of Punjab and Administrator of the Union Territory of Chandigarh.

His entry into politics began at the grassroots as the municipal council chief of Latur, eventually leading to his election as an MLA in the early 1970s. Throughout his public life, he was admired for his calm demeanour and dignified conduct.

A scholar at heart, Patil was recognised for his wide reading, careful analysis, and clarity in communication. Fluent in Marathi, English, and Hindi, and celebrated for his deep command of constitutional affairs, he earned a reputation as one of the most respected parliamentarians of his generation, party leaders said.