MUMBAI, Dec 12 — Veteran Congress leader and former Union home minister Shivraj Patil died Friday morning at his residence in Latur, Maharashtra, family members said. He was 90.
Patil died at his home, Devghar, after a brief illness, relatives said. His funeral will be held Saturday. He is survived by his son, Shailesh Patil; daughter-in-law Archana; and two granddaughters.
Born on Oct. 12, 1935, Patil rose from local politics to hold several of the country’s top constitutional and ministerial posts. He served as the governor of Punjab and administrator of Chandigarh from 2010 to 2015 and was Union home minister from 2004 to 2008.
President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar, and several senior leaders mourned his passing. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis called him “a distinguished parliamentarian and statesman,” adding that Patil “left an indelible mark through exemplary public service.”
Patil resigned as home minister following the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, later responding to criticism over his attire that night by saying public debate should focus on policy, not clothing. In 2022, he drew controversy for comments on the concept of “jihad” while speaking at a book launch.
Patil had met the prime minister along with his family in March 2025.
