Gujarat: PM Modi mourns death of MLA Yogesh Patel, calls him 'true people's leader' (Lead)
New Delhi/Vadodara, June 2 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday expressed grief over the death of senior Gujarat legislator Yogesh Patel, describing him as a "true people's leader" and saying he had lost a unique companion from his public life.
In a post on social media platform X, PM Modi paid tribute to the veteran Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, who represented the Manjalpur Assembly constituency in Vadodara and was among the longest-serving members of the Gujarat Legislative Assembly.
"The news of the demise of Yogesh Patel, a senior member of the Gujarat Legislative Assembly, is saddening. With his passing, I have lost a unique companion from my public life," the Prime Minister said.
"Yogeshbhai was a true people's leader. He always raised the issues of the people with sincerity, sensitivity, and commitment," PM Modi added.
The Prime Minister also offered condolences to Patel's family and supporters, praying for peace for the departed soul and strength for his loved ones to bear the loss.
PM Modi's tribute came after several senior Gujarat leaders, including Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, and BJP state president Jagdish Vishwakarma, expressed condolences over the veteran legislator's death.
Yogesh Patel was a prominent BJP leader in Vadodara and had been a familiar figure in Gujarat politics for decades.
He has represented the Manjalpur constituency continuously since its creation following delimitation, and he secured victories in the 2012, 2017, and 2022 Assembly elections.
Before that, he had also represented the Raopura constituency, making him one of the most experienced legislators in the state.
Known for his organisational work and close engagement with constituents, Patel was regarded as a key BJP leader in Vadodara.
Following the 2022 Gujarat Assembly elections, he was appointed pro-tem Speaker of the Gujarat Legislative Assembly, reflecting his seniority in the House.
Throughout his political career, Patel remained associated with local civic issues and constituency development while maintaining a strong presence within the BJP organisation.
His death marks the end of a public career spanning several decades that earned him recognition across party lines in Gujarat.
Condolence messages continued to pour in from political leaders and party workers, who remembered Patel for his long-standing service to public life and his commitment to addressing the concerns of ordinary citizens.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Such a loss for Gujarat politics. He was among the few leaders who actually listened to common people's problems. His work in Raopura and Manjalpur will always be remembered. My condolences to his family.
Having visited Vadodara several times, I could see how much the local community respected leaders like Yogesh Patel. It's rare to see politicians who maintain such close ties with their constituents for decades. A genuine loss.
Whether you agree with his party or not, you have to respect his years of public service. Being elected continuously since 2012 shows the faith people had in him. Politics needs more such sincere workers. Om Shanti 🙏
It's always sad when a long-serving public servant passes away. His career spanning multiple decades and constituencies shows real dedication. The pro-tem Speaker role also reflects his experience. Condolences to all who knew him.
I remember seeing Yogeshbhai at local events in Vadodara - he was always approachable and genuinely cared about people's issues. It's heartening to see leaders across party lines remembering his contributions. May God give strength to his family. 💐
Interesting to see how local political figures are so deeply rooted
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