Karnataka Assembly Pays Tribute to Shamanur Shivashankarappa
Speaking on the condolence resolution moved following Shivashankarappa’s demise, Siddaramaiah described him as a true people’s leader deeply rooted in public life
Belagavi: The Karnataka Legislative Assembly on Friday paid tributes to veteran legislator Shamanur Shivashankarappa, with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah recalling his pivotal role in shaping Davanagere’s social, economic and educational development.
Speaking on the condolence resolution moved following Shivashankarappa’s demise, Siddaramaiah described him as a true people’s leader deeply rooted in public life. He recalled visiting the senior leader in hospital about 15 days ago, when his health had significantly deteriorated.
The Chief Minister expressed condolences to the bereaved family and Shivashankarappa’s lakhs of admirers, praying for strength for them to bear the loss and for the departed soul to attain eternal peace.
Highlighting his contributions, Siddaramaiah said Shivashankarappa helped Davanagere chart a new economic path by creating a distinct brand identity for the district when the textile sector began to decline. He also lauded his humanitarian efforts during the Covid-19 pandemic, noting that he spent over Rs 6 crore on oxygen supplies to save lives.
Through the Bapuji Educational Centre, Shivashankarappa established several institutions, including engineering and medical colleges, transforming Davanagere into a major education hub. As an industrialist and institution builder, he left a lasting impact across multiple sectors, the Chief Minister said.
Shivashankarappa served as treasurer of the All India Congress Committee for a long period and was known for maintaining cordial relations across party lines, earning him the reputation of being an ajathashatru—one without enemies.
Siddaramaiah also recalled that Shivashankarappa served as a minister during his earlier tenure as Chief Minister. During a 2016 Cabinet reshuffle, he had requested that his son, S.S. Mallikarjun, be inducted as a minister. Mallikarjun currently serves in the present Cabinet.
Tracing his long public life, Siddaramaiah said Shivashankarappa began his political career in 1969 as a municipal councillor in Davanagere, later becoming president of the city municipal council. He entered the Legislative Assembly at the age of 63 and went on to serve six terms as an MLA, besides serving as a Member of Parliament and president of the All India Veerashaiva Mahasabha.
On a personal note, the Chief Minister recalled staying at Shivashankarappa’s guest house during visits to Davanagere and sharing meals at his residence at his insistence. He also fondly remembered celebrating his 75th birthday in Davanagere.
