Wife of Daman, DNH and Diu Administrator Praful Patel passes away

DAMAN : The demise of Bhavanaben Patel, wife of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu Administrator Praful Patel, has cast a shadow of grief across political and social circles. As news of her passing spread on Monday, condolences poured in from leaders, government officials, and well-wishers from across the country, reflecting the family’s deep connections within public life.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the first national leaders to express his sorrow. In a message shared on social media platform X, Modi recalled his long-standing association with the Patel family and offered heartfelt condolences.

“Saddened by the news of the death of Bhavanaben Patel, wife of Prafulbhai Patel, Administrator of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. I have had a close acquaintance and close relationship with this family for years. In this hour of grief, I offer my heartfelt condolences to the family and pray that the Almighty may grant peace to the departed soul,” the Prime Minister wrote.

According to family sources, Bhavanaben Patel’s mortal remains are being flown to Ahmedabad in a chartered aircraft and are expected to arrive in the afternoon. Arrangements have been made for relatives, friends, political leaders, and members of the public to pay their last respects before the final rites.

The loss has left the Patel family in mourning, with tributes continuing to arrive from various sections of society. Several political leaders and senior administrators have conveyed their sympathies, remembering Bhavanaben as a respected and supportive presence in the family’s public journey.

Praful Patel remains a prominent figure in Gujarat’s political landscape and is widely regarded as one of Prime Minister Modi’s trusted associates. He first entered the Gujarat Assembly in 2007 after defeating senior Congress leader C. K. Patel from the Himmatnagar constituency. Despite being a first-time MLA, Patel was entrusted with the crucial responsibility of Minister of State for Home in Gujarat between 2010 and 2012, a period marked by significant political challenges.