### Shivraj Patil Chakurkar: A Legacy of Leadership and Service Ends with His Passing Former Union Home Minister and senior Congress leader Shivraj Patil Chakurkar has passed away at the age of 90. His death marks the end of a significant chapter in Indian politics, as he was a prominent figure who held various key positions, including the Speaker of the Lok Sabha and Union Home Minister during critical periods in the nation's history. Patil died at his residence in Latur after a brief illness, prompting an outpouring of condolences from political leaders across the spectrum, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu, who recognized his contributions to public service and governance [https://www.patrika.com/en/national-news/former-union-home-minister-shivraj-patil-chakurkar-passes-away-20167789, https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2025/Dec/12/former-union-minister-shivraj-patil-passes-away-at-90-2]. ### Overview of Shivraj Patil's Political Career and Impact 1. **Political Background**: - Shivraj Patil served as the Union Home Minister from 2004 to 2008 and was the 10th Speaker of the Lok Sabha from 1991 to 1996. He was a seven-term Member of Parliament representing the Latur constituency [https://www.republicworld.com/india/saddened-by-the-passing-of-shri-shivraj-patil-ji-an-experienced-leader-pm-modi, https://www.india.com/news/india/shivraj-patil-former-union-home-minister-and-lok-sabha-speaker-passes-away-at-90-8226067]. 2. **Contributions to Governance**: - Patil's tenure as Home Minister was marked by significant events, including the 2008 Mumbai attacks, which led to his resignation following public outcry over the government's response [https://www.thehawk.in/news/india/was-passionate-about-contributing-to-welfare-of-society-pm-modi-saddened-by-passing-of-shivraj-patil]. 3. **Public Service and Recognition**: - He was widely respected across political lines for his dedication to public service, with tributes pouring in from various leaders who acknowledged his cultured and scholarly personality [https://www.republicworld.com/india/shivraj-patil-chakurkar-s-demise-is-a-loss-of-a-cultured-and-scholarly-personality-dy-cm-ajit-pawar, https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/3728363-nation-mourns-the-loss-of-eminent-leader-shivraj-patil]. ### Key Data Points on Shivraj Patil's Legacy - **Age at Passing**: 90 years old - **Political Tenure**: - Union Home Minister: 2004-2008 - Speaker of the Lok Sabha: 1991-1996 - Seven-time MP from Latur - **Notable Events**: Resigned after the 2008 Mumbai attacks due to criticism of the government's handling of the situation [https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/former-union-home-minister-shivraj-patil-passes-away/article70387181.ece]. ### Conclusion: A Nation Mourns the Loss of a Political Stalwart The passing of Shivraj Patil Chakurkar signifies not just the loss of a veteran politician but also the end of an era in Indian politics characterized by his commitment to public service. His contributions as a leader and his role during pivotal moments in the country's history will be remembered. 1. **Legacy of Leadership**: Patil's extensive political career and his influence on governance will leave a lasting impact. 2. **Tributes and Condolences**: Leaders from across the political spectrum have expressed their grief, highlighting his dedication and service to the nation. 3. **Public Response**: The nation reflects on his contributions, marking his death as a significant loss to Indian politics [https://www.bhaskarenglish.in/national/news/former-home-minister-shivraj-patil-senior-congress-leader-confidant-indira-rajiv-gandhi-dies-prolonged-illness-136647019.html, https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/shivraj-patil-passes-away-90-101671204052052.html].