NAGPUR — Veteran politician and renowned educationist Datta Meghe passed away on March 22, 2026, at the age of 89. He breathed his last at his residence in Nagpur after suffering a massive heart attack, bringing an end to a long and influential career in public life.
Meghe was widely respected across party lines for his contributions to politics, education, and social development in Maharashtra, particularly in the Vidarbha region.
Funeral Arrangements and Last Rites
Following his demise, Meghe’s mortal remains is kept at his Khamla residence in Nagpur until 1:30 PM on March 23 for public viewing, allowing supporters, colleagues, and well-wishers to pay their last respects.
Afterward, the remains will move to the Sankalp residence located at the campus of Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research in Sawangi, Wardha. According to his final wishes, the last rites are scheduled to take place in his birthplace, Paunar village, at 2:30 PM on March 23.
Leaders Pay Tributes
Several political leaders visited Meghe’s residence and expressed grief over his passing.
Among those who paid their respects was Devendra Fadnavis, who visited the residence late on the night of March 22 to offer tributes.
Chandrashekhar Bawankule also attended the funeral viewing to pay his respects, while Pankaj Bhoyar visited to offer condolences.
Leaders across party lines described Meghe as a “visionary leader” and a “people’s leader,” noting that his death leaves a significant void in Maharashtra’s political, educational, and social landscape.
A Four-Decade Political Career
Born on November 11, 1936, Datta Raghobaji Meghe remained an influential figure in Maharashtra politics for more than four decades.
During his political career, he served four terms in the Lok Sabha, representing constituencies including Nagpur, Ramtek, and Wardha. He also served as a member of the Rajya Sabha from 2002 to 2008 and held several important portfolios as a Cabinet Minister in the Maharashtra state government.
Over the years, Meghe was associated with multiple political parties, including the Indian National Congress, the Nationalist Congress Party, and later the Bharatiya Janata Party.
Legacy as an Educationist
Beyond politics, Meghe was widely recognized as a pioneering educationist. He founded the Datta Meghe Group, which established numerous medical colleges, engineering institutes, and schools across Maharashtra.
His initiatives helped transform the Vidarbha region into a significant educational hub, providing opportunities to thousands of students over the decades.
Survived by Family
Meghe is survived by his sons, including Sagar Meghe and Sameer Meghe, who currently serves as a Member of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly from the Hingna constituency.
His passing marks the end of an era in Maharashtra politics, leaving behind a legacy of public service and educational development.
