The funeral of veteran Congress leader Shivraj Patil, who served as a former Union minister, took place on Saturday in his hometown of Latur, where he received full state honours. Leaders from various parties united to commemorate one of India’s most seasoned parliamentarians.
Among those who attended the funeral were Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Union Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, former Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan, and Karnataka Minister Eshwar Khandre. This gathering highlighted Patil’s broad influence and respect across political lines.
Shivraj Patil, a distinguished member of the Lingayat community, was interred at his farm in Varvanti village, located approximately six kilometres from Latur. Observing traditional customs, he was laid to rest in a seated, meditative position, per the community’s beliefs that the soul directly merges with Lord Shiva after death, making cremation unnecessary.
Prior to the burial, Patil received a ceremonial gun salute. Om Birla laid a wreath on his mortal remains, and the Maharashtra Congress President Harshwardhan Sapkal, alongside Latur Lok Sabha MP Shivaji Kolge, paid their respects.
Shivraj Patil passed away at the age of 90 on Friday, following a brief illness. His political journey spanned over five decades, earning him renown as a dedicated public servant. He held prestigious roles including Speaker of the Lok Sabha and Union Home Minister, playing significant roles in shaping India’s political landscape.
Patil began his political career in 1967 as a municipal corporation member in Latur. He served two terms in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly from 1972-1980. Subsequently, Patil represented the Latur Lok Sabha constituency for seven continuous terms, winning elections between 1980 and 1999.
His entry into the Indira Gandhi-led government as Minister of State for Defence lasted from 1980 to 1982. Following this, he managed several key ministries, including Commerce and Science and Technology. Under Rajiv Gandhi’s government, Patil held pivotal roles in Defence Production, Civil Aviation, and Tourism.
In 2004, Patil assumed the prominent position of Union Home Minister, a role he maintained until November 30, 2008. He resigned after the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, taking moral responsibility for the security failures during this tragic event.
After his tenure as Home Minister, Patil served as the Governor of Punjab and the Administrator of Chandigarh from 2010 to 2015. His contributions to governance and public service remain noteworthy.
In the political sphere, Patil earned respect for his unwavering dedication to parliamentary ethics. A key incident from March 1979 underscores his integrity. When unverified reports hinted at Gandhian leader Jayaprakash Narayan’s death, many leaders, including Prime Minister Morarji Desai, expressed their condolences. Patil, then the Speaker of the Maharashtra Assembly, insisted on an official confirmation, immediately adjourning the House to verify Narayan’s status. His actions resulted in the Assembly later passing a resolution wishing Narayan a long life, as he was confirmed alive.
Shivraj Patil’s death signifies the end of an era characterized by parliamentary decorum, extensive administrative experience, and unwavering political integrity. His legacy will continue to inspire aspiring leaders and ensure his remarkable contributions to Indian politics are remembered.
