"I was extremely sad to learn of the untimely demise of your revered father and my trusted friend, Shri Uttamrao Patil, yesterday night at JJ Hospital in Mumbai. As you are aware, my association with Shri Uttamrao Patil dates back to late 50s when we started our parliamentary career together. Your father had always been a source of encouragement and inspiration for all of us all through his entire life.

    In his passing away, the Bharatiya Janata Party has lost one of its founders and the nation a stalwart who was fearless and determined to causes close to his heart. I pray Almighty to let the departed soul rest in peace and am sure you and other members of the family would have found the inner spiritual strength to bear this loss with fortitude".