Senior Congress leader and former Union Minister Murli Deora passed away here this morning after prolonged illness. He was 77 and is survived by his wife and two sons, including former MP Milind Deora. Murli bhai as he was known as died at around 3.25 am.

He had been unwell and admitted to a hospital. He had come home two days ago, family sources said. Deora's mortal remains would be kept at the Mumbai Congress office, where party workers would pay their last respects from 12 noon to 2pm.