Former Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Manohar Joshi, breathed his last today, February 23, at Hinduja Hospital in Mumbai. The 86-year-old leader succumbed to heart failure, leaving behind a legacy of political prowess and controversies.
Former Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Manohar Joshi, dies at 86, leaving behind a political legacy.
Joshi’s political journey was marked by significant milestones, starting with his tenure as the Chief Minister of the Shiv Sena-BJP coalition government from March 1995 to January 1999. He was a close confidant of Balasaheb Thackeray, the founder of Shiv Sena, and played a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape of Maharashtra.https://livesamacharnews.com/the-
astonishing-…rn-from-the-dead/
Born in 1937, Joshi initially ventured into politics as a staunch Shiv Sainik, rising through the ranks to become the Mayor of Mumbai in 1976. His journey continued with roles as the Opposition leader in the Legislative Assembly and later as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra for two terms, from 1995 to 1999 and then from 1999 to 2002.
However, Joshi’s political career was not devoid of controversies. He faced allegations of benefiting from a controversial land deal, which led to his resignation as Chief Minister following pressure from Balasaheb Thackeray. This incident sparked widespread debate and scrutiny, overshadowing his contributions to the state’s governance.
Despite facing criticism from within the Shiv Sena ranks, particularly after Thackeray’s demise in 2012, Joshi remained a prominent figure in Maharashtra politics. His tenure as the Speaker of the Lok Sabha from 2002 to 2004 further solidified his influence in national politics.
Joshi’s demise marks the end of an era in Maharashtra’s political landscape. His mortal remains will be cremated at Dadar crematorium, bidding farewell to a leader whose legacy is etched in the annals of the state’s history.
| Key Milestones in Manohar Joshi’s Political Career |
|---|
| * Mayor of Mumbai (1976) |
| * Chief Minister of Maharashtra (1995-1999, 1999-2002) |
| * Speaker of the Lok Sabha (2002-2004) |
| * Accusations of benefiting from controversial land deal |
| * Resignation as Chief Minister amidst controversy |
| * Legacy overshadowed by political controversies |
| * Close confidant of Balasaheb Thackeray |
| * Significant contributions to Shiv Sena-BJP coalition government |