VADODARA: Former Gujarat minister and eight-time Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Yogesh Patel passed away in Vadodara on Tuesday after a prolonged illness, party leaders confirmed. He was 79 years old.
Patel, who represented the Manjalpur constituency in Vadodara city, had been unwell for some time and was undergoing treatment at a local hospital for the past two days due to age-related health complications, according to news agency PTI.
A Political Career Spanning Over Three Decades
A veteran BJP leader, Patel's political career extended over three decades, with a legislative tenure of 36 years. He was elected to the Gujarat Assembly eight consecutive times, beginning in 1990. His electoral journey started from the Raopura constituency in Vadodara, which he represented five times before moving to Manjalpur following delimitation.
Patel won from Raopura in the 1990, 1995, 1998, 2002, and 2007 Assembly elections. He later secured victories from Manjalpur in the 2012, 2017, and 2022 elections, demonstrating his enduring popularity among voters.
Ministerial Role and Contributions
During his political career, Patel served as Minister of State for Narmada and Urban Housing in the government led by then Chief Minister Vijay Rupani. His work in these portfolios was widely acknowledged.
Condolences Pour In
Condoling his death, Gujarat BJP President Jagdish Vishwakarma said Patel's contribution to public service and the party would be remembered for years to come. In a statement, Vishwakarma expressed, "The news of the demise of Yogesh Patel, a senior leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party and the MLA from Manjalpur, is extremely heart-breaking. His contribution to public service and the organisation over decades will always be remembered."
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel also expressed his grief, stating, "I express my grief over the passing of Yogeshbhai Patel, the MLA from Manjalpur. He was tirelessly devoted to his duties in national service and public service, and he had earned a special place in the hearts of the common people. I pray that God grant peace to his soul and give strength to the bereaved family and supporters to bear this sorrow."
Patel's demise marks the end of an era in Gujarat politics, with many recalling his dedication to public welfare and his role in the BJP's growth in the region.
