The last rites of veteran Congress leader and former Union minister Shivraj Patil took place with full state honours on Saturday in Latur, marking the end of an era for Indian politics. Patil’s passing on Friday, following a brief illness, prompted tributes from leaders across various parties.
Several prominent figures attended the funeral, including Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, and Union Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth. Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan and Karnataka Minister Eshwar Khandre also paid their respects.
Patil, a prominent leader of the Lingayat community, was laid to rest at his farm in Varvanti village, located six kilometres from Latur. The burial adhered to traditional Lingayat rites. According to Lingayat beliefs, the soul merges directly with Lord Shiva after death, negating the necessity for cremation. As per custom, he was positioned in a seated, meditative posture.
Prior to the burial, Patil received a ceremonial gun salute. Om Birla laid a wreath on his mortal remains, while Maharashtra Congress President Harshwardhan Sapkal and Latur Lok Sabha MP Shivaji Kolge were present to honour the late leader.
Shivraj Patil was 90 years old at the time of his demise. His political journey, spanning more than five decades, saw him in critical roles including Speaker of the Lok Sabha and Union Home Minister. Patil began his public life as a member of the Latur Municipal Corporation in 1967 and served two terms in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly from 1972 to 1980.
After that, he represented the Latur Lok Sabha constituency for seven consecutive terms, winning elections in 1980, 1984, 1989, 1991, 1996, 1998 and 1999. His entry into the Indira Gandhi-led government commenced as Minister of State for Defence from 1980 to 1982.
During his tenure, Patil also held independent charge of key ministries, including the Commerce Ministry (1982-1983). He was deeply involved in portfolios essential to national development, such as Science and Technology, Atomic Energy, Electronics, Space, and Ocean Development.
During the Rajiv Gandhi government, Patil continued to make significant contributions as Minister for Personnel, Defence Production, Civil Aviation, and Tourism. In 2004, he was appointed Union Home Minister, a role he held until his resignation on November 30, 2008, taking moral responsibility for lapses during the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.
Following his ministerial duties, Patil served as the Governor of Punjab and the Administrator of Chandigarh from 2010 to 2015. His long-standing political career made him a guiding figure in Indian politics.
Widely respected, Patil exemplified integrity and parliamentary ethics. A key moment in his career occurred in March 1979, when rumors circulated about the passing of Gandhian leader Jayaprakash Narayan. While numerous leaders, including then Prime Minister Morarji Desai, extended condolences, Patil insisted on verification. He adjourned the House and contacted doctors, confirming Narayan’s survival before the Assembly passed a resolution wishing him longevity.
Shivraj Patil’s death signifies the loss of a stalwart in parliamentary decorum and political integrity. His contributions to Indian politics will continue to inspire future leaders and politicians.