New Delhi, Dec 12 (UNI) The Lok Sabha proceedings on Friday were adjourned till noon after paying tributes to the veteran Congress leader and former Speaker of the House, Shivraj Patil, who passed away this morning at the age of 90.
As the House convened, Speaker Om Birla solemnly announced the demise of Shivraj Patil and led the members in honoring his legacy. “Shivraj V Patil was a distinguished parliamentarian who served in many capacities, including as Lok Sabha Speaker, union Home Minister, and Governor. His contributions to the nation will always be remembered,” said Birla.
In addition, the House also paid homage to the brave security personnel who lost their lives during the terror attack on Parliament on December 13, 2001. Speaker Birla remembered the nine martyrs, including eight security forces personnel from the Parliament Security Service, Delhi Police, and CRPF, who made the ultimate sacrifice defending the nation’s democracy.
The Speaker emphasised the nation’s steadfast commitment to combating terrorism, stating, “Remembering their valor and sacrifice, the House reaffirms its unwavering resolve to safeguard the unity, integrity, and sovereignty of India.”
As a mark of respect, members stood in silence for a brief moment before the House was adjourned till 12 noon.
Shivraj Patil was a senior Congress leader known for his extensive political career. He served as the Speaker of the Lok Sabha from 1991 to 1996, and later as the union Home Minister. Patil also held the post of Governor of Rajasthan.
The December 13, 2001 terror attack on the Indian Parliament was a significant event in the country’s history, where terrorists attacked the Parliament complex, resulting in the death of nine people, including security personnel, marking a dark day for Indian democracy.
