Former Lok Sabha Speaker Manohar Joshi Passes Away at 86

Former Lok Sabha Speaker and Shiv Sena stalwart Manohar Joshi passed away at the age of 86 after suffering a cardiac arrest. He was admitted to Hinduja Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit in Mumbai on February 21 and passed away early Friday, according to the hospital. Joshi had a long and distinguished career in Indian politics, serving as the first Chief Minister of the undivided Shiv Sena from 1995 to 1999, and later as the Lok Sabha Speaker from 2002 to 2004 during the Vajpayee government. He was also a Union minister of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises.

Born on December 2, 1937, in the coastal Konkan region of Maharashtra, Joshi was an alumnus of the Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute (VJTI) in Mumbai, where he obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering. His political journey began with his involvement in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, leading him to become a significant figure in the Shiv Sena. Joshi was renowned for his organizational skills within the party and played pivotal roles as the Mayor of Mumbai, a municipal councilor, and later as a member of both the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly and Council.

The political sphere mourns the loss of Manohar Joshi, remembered for his cultured presence and significant contributions to Indian politics. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, among others, expressed condolences, highlighting the void left by his departure. Joshi’s family announced that his last rites would be performed at Shivaji Park crematorium in Dadar. Survived by a son and two daughters, Joshi leaves behind a legacy of service and dedication.

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