As Lok Sabha Speaker, he spearheaded the modernisation and computerisation of Parliament, introduced live telecasting of proceedings, and oversaw initiatives such as the new library building. The “Outstanding Parliamentarian Award” was also instituted during his tenure
Shivraj Patil Chakurkar. PIC/X
Senior Congress leader and former Lok Sabha Speaker Shivraj Patil Chakurkar passed away on Friday morning at his residence in Deoghar, Latur, Maharashtra. He was 91 years old and had been undergoing treatment at home for several days, according to the reports. Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar described his demise as the loss of a cultured and diligent personality.
In his condolence message, Ajit Pawar lauded Chakurkar’s lifelong commitment to public service, describing him as a symbol of simplicity and moral values. During his extensive political career, Chakurkar held several key positions, including Union Minister, Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, and Governor of Punjab, consistently upholding ethics in politics.
काँग्रेसचे ज्येष्ठ नेते, लोकसभेचे माजी अध्यक्ष, देशाचे माजी गृहमंत्री शिवराज पाटील चाकूरकर यांच्या निधनानं देशाच्या राजकारणातील एक सभ्य, सुसंस्कृत आणि अभ्यासू व्यक्तिमत्व आपण गमावलं आहे. मी त्यांना भावपूर्ण श्रद्धांजली अर्पण करतो.
— Ajit Pawar (@AjitPawarSpeaks) December 12, 2025
शिवराज पाटील चाकूरकर यांनी लोकसेवेचा नवा आदर्श… pic.twitter.com/GeVlK13Isp
As Lok Sabha Speaker, he spearheaded the modernisation and computerisation of Parliament, introduced live telecasting of proceedings, and oversaw initiatives such as the new library building, as per the reports. The “Outstanding Parliamentarian Award” was also instituted during his tenure. Ajit Pawar noted that Chakurkar’s deep knowledge of the Indian Constitution and his efforts to strengthen democracy would be remembered for years to come.
Chakurkar’s political journey spanned several decades. He began as Mayor of Latur and was elected to the Lok Sabha from Chakur in Latur district, winning the seat seven times. Although he lost the Lok Sabha seat in 2004, he was later appointed to the Rajya Sabha and became the Union Home Minister, according to the reports.
During his tenure as Home Minister, India faced the 26/11 Mumbai terrorist attacks in 2008, which claimed numerous lives, including senior police officers. Patil resigned from the post on 30 November 2008, accepting moral responsibility for the attack.
In addition to the Home Ministry, Chakurkar held several central portfolios, including Defence, Commerce, Science and Technology, Civil Aviation, and Tourism. He also served as the Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh from 2010 to 2015.
Congress leaders and party workers across the country expressed grief over his demise, remembering him as a principled politician and a devoted public servant.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed deep sorrow over the demise of former Union Minister.
In a post on X, Amit Shah said, “Deeply saddened by the passing of former Union Minister Shivraj Patil Chakurkar Ji. Throughout his long and distinguished career, he was admired for his extensive knowledge of public affairs and unwavering dedication to service. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and all who were close to him.”
Saddened by the demise of former Union Minister Shivraj Patil Chakurkar Ji.
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) December 12, 2025
With a career spanning several decades, Patil Ji was known for his vast knowledge of public affairs and his dedicated service.
Heartfelt condolences to his family members and well-wishers.
Prime Minister Modi also paid tribute on X, stating, “I am deeply saddened by the demise of Shri Shivraj Patil Ji. He was an experienced and respected leader. During his long public career, he served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly, Member of Parliament, Union Minister, as well as Speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly and the Lok Sabha. He was driven by a strong commitment to the welfare of society. Over the past few years, I had several interactions with him, the most recent being a few months ago when he visited my residence. At this sorrowful time, my heartfelt condolences are with his family. Om Shanti.”
श्री शिवराज पाटील जी यांच्या निधनाने दुःख झाले आहे. ते एक अनुभवी नेते होते. सार्वजनिक जीवनातील आपल्या प्रदीर्घ कारकिर्दीत त्यांनी आमदार, खासदार, केंद्रीय मंत्री, महाराष्ट्र विधानसभेचे तसेच लोकसभेचे अध्यक्ष म्हणून काम केले. समाजाच्या कल्याणासाठी योगदान देण्याच्या ध्येयाने ते… pic.twitter.com/aqQVerLnhn
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 12, 2025
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