Bhikajirao Jijaba Khatal-Patil (commonly B. J. Khatal-Patil; Marathi: बी. जे. खताळ - पाटील) (26 March 1919 – 16 September 2019) was an Indian politician, writer and social activist from Sangamner in Ahmednagar district. Active in public life for many decades, he was associated with the Indian National Congress (INC) and served multiple terms in the state legislature.
Early life and background
Khatal-Patil was born in Sangamner, a town in what is today the state of Maharashtra. His upbringing in a rural district shaped his interest in regional concerns and public service. He became known locally for his engagement with civic matters and for addressing social issues through both political work and writing.
Political career
Khatal-Patil represented his constituency in the Maharashtra legislative assembly over several terms. He served as a legislator between 1962 and 1978, and again from 1980 to 1985, participating in debates and constituency work at a time when Maharashtra was consolidating its post-independence institutions. He remained a member of the Congress party throughout his legislative career and worked on matters affecting rural development and local governance within the state of Maharashtra.
Writing, activism and public role
Alongside his political activity, Khatal-Patil wrote on topics of public interest and engaged in social activism. He was regarded as a public intellectual in his region, contributing articles, speeches and commentary in Marathi and addressing community concerns. His familiarity and long tenure in public life earned him popular epithets such as "Dada" and "Khatal Saheb."
Death and legacy
Khatal-Patil died at his home in Sangamner on 16 September 2019 at the age of 100; reports state he succumbed to pneumonia (pneumonia). His career is remembered locally for steady legislative service, regional advocacy and a body of writing that reflected his lifelong engagement with civic affairs. He remains a notable figure in the political history of his district and in accounts of post‑independence Maharashtra public life.