Ex- Home Minister Shivraj Patil, once targeted over ‘Clothes’ during 2008 blasts, passes away at 90

Former Union Home Minister and veteran Congress leader Shivraj Patil passed away on Friday at his residence in Latur, Maharashtra. He was 90. Patil, who had been ailing for some time, is survived by his son Shailesh, daughter-in-law Archana, and two granddaughters.

Patil was a prominent figure in national politics for several decades. He served as Union Home Minister between 2004 and 2008 during the UPA-I government led by Dr. Manmohan Singh. His tenure coincided with some of the most challenging security moments in the country, including the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, after which he stepped down from his post.

Before entering the Union Cabinet, Patil held several key roles in Parliament. He served as the Speaker of the 10th Lok Sabha (1991–1996) and later went on to become the Governor of Punjab as well as the Administrator of the Union Territory of Chandigarh from 2010 to 2015.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the senior leader’s demise, describing him as an “experienced leader” who had contributed to public life in multiple capacities, from state legislator to national-level minister and Speaker.

Saddened by the passing of Shri Shivraj Patil Ji. He was an experienced leader, having served as MLA, MP, Union Minister, Speaker of the Maharashtra Assembly as well as the Lok Sabha during his long years in public life. He was passionate about contributing to the welfare of… pic.twitter.com/muabyf7Va8

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 12, 2025

Born on October 12, 1935, in Latur, Patil pursued a science degree from Osmania University and later studied law at Mumbai University. His political journey began at the grassroots level as the chief of the Latur municipal council. He entered the Maharashtra Assembly in 1972 and was re-elected in 1978, quickly emerging as an influential state leader. Over the years, he held several important positions, including Deputy Speaker and Deputy Minister of Law.

A controversy that shadowed his tenure

Patil’s years as Home Minister were not without controversy. Following the 2008 serial bombings in Delhi, he found himself at the centre of a heated public debate when images surfaced of him appearing in different outfits on the night of the Delhi attack. Critics accused him of being preoccupied with his attire amid a national crisis.

Patil dismissed the criticism, saying his personal habits should not overshadow substantive issues. He urged detractors to focus on his decisions and policies rather than his clothing. Despite his defence, the incident earned him the unflattering moniker “serial dresser” in sections of the media and added to the pressure already mounting over various security lapses.

The fallout from these events, intensified by the devastating Mumbai attacks later that year, eventually led to his resignation on November 30, 2008.

A legacy of dignified public service

Despite the controversies, Patil remained widely respected across the political spectrum for his calm demeanour and measured conduct. He was known for avoiding personal attacks, both in public discourse and private interactions—a quality that distinguished him through decades of political engagement.

Shivraj Patil leaves behind a long legacy marked by public service, parliamentary experience, and an unwavering commitment to political decorum.

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