Shiv Sena Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Manohar Joshi Passes Away

Former Maharashtra Chief Minister and veteran Shiv Sena leader Manohar Joshi, aged 86, passed away early Friday morning.

The 86-year-old leader, known for his significant contributions to Maharashtra’s political landscape, had previously been admitted to the same hospital in May last year following a brain haemorrhage.

Manohar Joshi served as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra from 1995 to 1999, making history as the first leader from the undivided Shiv Sena to hold the state’s top post. Additionally, he served as a Member of Parliament and held the prestigious position of Lok Sabha Speaker from 2002 to 2004 during the Vajpayee government’s tenure.

Born on December 2, 1937, in Maharashtra’s coastal Konkan region, Joshi began his political journey with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) before joining the Shiv Sena. He was widely respected for his organizational skills and played a pivotal role in shaping the party’s trajectory in the 1980s.

Joshi’s political career spanned over four decades, during which he held various significant positions, including municipal councilor, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the Mumbai municipal corporation, Mayor of Mumbai, and member of the Maharashtra Legislative Council.

In the 1999 general elections, Joshi won from the Mumbai North-Central Lok Sabha Constituency and subsequently served as the Union Minister of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises.

Manohar Joshi’s demise marks the end of an era in Maharashtra’s political history. He leaves behind a legacy of dedicated service and unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people. His contributions to the state and the nation will be remembered with respect and gratitude.