New Delhi, Dec 12 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed profound sorrow on Friday regarding the demise of esteemed Congress leader and former Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil. He noted that Patil was deeply committed to the betterment of society.

In a post on the social media platform X, PM Modi stated, “I am saddened by the passing of Shri Shivraj Patil Ji. He was a seasoned leader, having held positions as MLA, MP, Union Minister, and Speaker of the Maharashtra Assembly as well as the Lok Sabha throughout his extensive public service.”

“His dedication to societal welfare was remarkable. I cherished many conversations with him over the years, the latest being during his visit to my residence a few months ago. My thoughts are with his family during this difficult time. Om Shanti," he added.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also shared his condolences on social media X, stating, "He was an experienced leader who served our nation in various roles and made valuable contributions to India’s advancement. My sympathies are with his family and supporters during this sad time. Om Shanti."

Shivraj Patil passed away in his hometown of Latur in Maharashtra on Friday morning. He was 90 years old and died at his residence, ‘Devghar’, following a brief illness, according to family sources.

He is survived by his son, Shailesh Patil, daughter-in-law Archana, a BJP leader, and two granddaughters.

Patil served as India’s Union Home Minister from 2004 to 2008 and was the 10th Speaker of the Lok Sabha from 1991 to 1996. Additionally, he held the position of Governor of Punjab and acted as the Administrator of the Union Territory of Chandigarh between 2010 and 2015.

Born on October 12, 1935, Patil commenced his public career as the municipal council chief of Latur and was elected as an MLA in the early 1970s. He later secured the Latur Lok Sabha seat seven times, establishing himself as a significant leader in the region, despite losing the 2004 elections to the BJP’s Rupatai Patil Nilangekar.

Renowned for his dignified demeanor, Patil refrained from personal attacks in both public speeches and private discussions, as recalled by a party leader.

He was also greatly respected for his extensive reading, thorough analysis, and eloquent expression. His proficiency in Marathi, English, and Hindi, along with a strong understanding of constitutional issues, ranked him among the most esteemed parliamentarians of his time, as noted by the party leader.