India, Dec. 12 -- India united in grief on Thursday as news broke of the passing of Shivraj Patil, one of the country's most seasoned political leaders whose career spanned several decades and some of the nation's highest constitutional offices. Condolences poured in from across the political spectrum, reflecting the wide respect he commanded as a statesman, parliamentarian, and public servant.

President Droupadi Murmu was among the first to issue a heartfelt tribute, describing Patil as a "prominent public figure" whose long public life saw him serve as Lok Sabha Speaker, Union Minister, Governor and a longstanding Member of Parliament. She extended her condolences to his family, admirers, and supporters, noting the void left by his dem...