New Delhi, Dec 12: The Rajya Sabha observed a solemn tribute session on Friday to honor former Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil, who breathed his last this morning at the age of 90, as Chairman C P Radhakrishnan described him as a towering parliamentarian and proficient administrator whose absence leaves a void in national leadership.
A veteran Congressman hailing from Maharashtra, Patil had represented his state in the Upper House from 2004 to 2010, building a legacy marked by key roles including the 10th Speaker of Lok Sabha, Union Home Minister, Governor of Punjab, and Administrator of Chandigarh.
During the Zero Hour proceedings, Radhakrishnan expressed profound grief, stating, “I refer with profound sorrow to the passing away of Shivraj Patil Ji, a former member of this house who passed away today, the 12th of December 2025,” before elaborating on Patil’s birth on October 12, 1935, and his illustrious career spanning constitutional posts and parliamentary excellence.
Radhakrishnan praised Patil as “a dignified and soft-spoken statesman” renowned for his mastery of parliamentary procedures, steadfast adherence to democratic principles, and composed demeanor in public service, noting that “the country has lost an experienced statesman, an able administrator and a respected parliamentarian.” Members stood in silence for two minutes as a gesture of respect.
Patil passed away at his Latur residence ‘Devghar’ following a brief illness, according to family sources, with his funeral rites scheduled for Saturday, capping a life of notable contributions to India’s governance and legislative framework.
