Former Maharashtra minister and senior Congress leader Anantrao Thopte passed away at a private hospital in Pune on Thursday after a prolonged illness. He was 93.
Political Career and Legacy
Born on January 11, 1933, Thopte remained a staunch Congress loyalist throughout his life. He represented the Bhor assembly constituency in Pune six times and served as a minister in several state cabinets. Despite the political rivalry with NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar, who also hails from the same Pune district, Thopte managed to expand his support base in Bhor tehsil and stood his ground amid clashes of regional supremacy.
Family Continuation in Politics
As Thopte withdrew from active politics due to age-related health issues, his son Sangram continued the family legacy and represented the Bhor assembly constituency. However, after facing defeat in the 2024 assembly elections, Sangram switched to the BJP, while his father remained in the Congress party.
Condolences from Leaders
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed his condolences, stating, "The news of the passing of former minister and veteran politician Anantrao Thopte is extremely heartbreaking. His contribution in the cooperative and banking sector was immense. He made a major contribution to promote the dairy business. He will be remembered as a bold politician."
Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar, Cabinet Minister Chhagan Bhujbal, state Congress chief Harshwardhan Sapkal, and Baramati MP Supriya Sule also expressed their condolences on Thopte's passing.
Funeral Arrangements
The mortal remains of Thopte will be taken to Bhor on Friday morning, where the last rites will be performed on the same day.
