Ex CM of Maha, Former Lok Sabha Speaker, Manohar G. Joshi, Passes Away
Mumbai: Renowned Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and former CM of Maharashtra and former Lok Sabha Speaker, Manohar G. Joshi, passed away early Friday morning after a heart attack.
The 86-year-old, a key figure in Maharashtra politics, was admitted to Hinduja Hospital in Mahim but succumbed to age-related health issues. Joshi, popularly known as ‘Sir’ in political circles, had a six-decade-long political career, holding positions such as Municipal Corporator, Mayor, Maharashtra CM, Union Minister, and Lok Sabha Speaker.
A confidante of Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray, Joshi led the first saffron government in Maharashtra (1995-1999). Despite health concerns, he remained associated with SS-UBT until his demise.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed sorrow, highlighting Joshi’s contributions at municipal, state, and national levels. Maharashtra leaders, including Governor Ramesh Bais, CM Eknath Shinde, and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, mourned his passing.
Shiv Sena President Uddhav Thackeray cut short his tour to pay respects. Top leaders from various parties, including BJP, MNS, and Maha Vikas Aghadi, remembered Joshi’s impactful political journey.
His mortal remains were available for public homage at Matunga, with the funeral procession scheduled for Dadar Crematorium at 3 p.m. Joshi’s diligence, principled politics, and transformative roles leave an enduring legacy. Condolences poured in from across the political spectrum, acknowledging Joshi’s significant imprint on Maharashtra’s political landscape.
