Former Gujarat Minister, 10-Time MLA Mohansinh Rathwa Dies at 82

Veteran tribal leader, former Gujarat Forest Minister and 10-time MLA Mohansinh Rathwa passed away on Saturday at the age of 82 after a prolonged illness.

Rathwa, who was regarded as one of Gujarat's most influential tribal leaders, had been unwell for some time. His death has prompted condolences from political leaders across party lines, particularly in Chhota Udepur, where he remained a towering political figure for decades.

Record 10-time legislator

Mohansinh Rathwa enjoyed one of the longest electoral careers in Gujarat politics. Over the course of his public life, he was elected to the Gujarat Assembly 10 times, representing the Pavi Jetpur and Chhota Udepur constituencies.

He won the Pavi Jetpur Assembly seat eight times and also represented Chhota Udepur, establishing himself as one of the state's most successful tribal politicians.

Served as Forest Minister

During his political career, Rathwa served as Gujarat's Forest Minister and was closely associated with policies concerning forests, rural development and tribal welfare.

Known for his grassroots connect, he remained an influential voice on issues affecting tribal communities and was widely recognised as a leader who maintained close ties with his constituents.

Switched to BJP before 2022 polls

Ahead of the 2022 Gujarat Assembly elections, Rathwa left the Congress and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), ending a long association with his former party.

Following his induction, the BJP fielded his younger son, Rajendra Singh Rathwa, from the Chhota Udepur Assembly constituency. He was elected and currently represents the seat in the Gujarat Assembly.

Rathwa's elder son is associated with the cooperative sector and serves as a director of Baroda Dairy.

End of an era

Although he had withdrawn from active politics in recent years due to ill health, Mohansinh Rathwa continued to be regarded as one of the tallest tribal leaders in Gujarat.

His death marks the end of an era in the state's tribal politics, where he remained a prominent public figure for decades through successive electoral victories and ministerial responsibilities.