New Delhi: Veteran Congressman and former Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil passed away at his home town Latur in Maharashtra on December 12, 2025.

Shivraj Patil, 90, passed away at his residence ‘Devghar’ after a brief illness. He is survived by his son Shailesh Patil, daughter-in-law Archana, and two granddaughters.

A prominent member of the Lingayat community, Patil was buried in his farm at Varvanti village, six kilometers from Latur, in a seated, meditative posture.

He was also known for his vast reading, meticulous study, and articulate presentation. His command over Marathi, English, and Hindi, along with his exceptional grasp of constitutional matters, made him a much-respected parliamentarian of his time.Known for his dignified conduct, he never indulged in personal attacks, neither in public speeches nor in private conversations,

Born on October 12, 1935, Patil began his political journey as the President of Latur municipality between 1966 and 1970 and was subsequently elected as an MLA for two terms. He held key posts in the Maharashtra assembly, including Deputy Speaker and Speaker, between 1977 and 1979.

He then went on to win the Latur Lok Sabha seat seven times and was the 10th Speaker of the Lok Sabha from 1991 to 1996.

The Congress leader held several Union portfolios, including Defence, Commerce, and Science and Technology. He was the Union Home Minister from 2004 to 2008, when he resigned after the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack. Shivraj Patil was the Governor of Punjab and also served as Administrator of the Union Territory of Chandigarh from 2010 to 2015.

In a message by the Congress President Shri Mallikarjun Kharge, he said “Deeply saddened by the passing of former Union Home Minister, Former Lok Sabha Speaker and veteran Congress leader Shri Shivraj Patil. He was an honoured senior colleague with whom I shared a close bond and many cherished memories.

A statesman of great dignity, Shri Patil served the nation with distinction, holding key Constitutional and Parliamentary responsibilities and contributing significantly to India’s Democratic institutions.

His demise is a profound loss for the Congress Party and for all who admired his integrity, composure and commitment to public service.

My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and countless supporters. May they find strength in this difficult hour, and may his soul rest in peace.”

In another condolence message by the Leader of Opposition Shri Rahul Gandhi, he said, “The news of the passing of former Union Minister and senior Congress leader Shri Shivraj Patil is extremely saddening and an irreparable loss for the Party. His dedication to public service and his contributions to the nation will always be remembered. In this time of grief, my deepest condolences are with the entire Patil family, his well-wishers, and supporters.”