Pics: Umesh Marpalli

Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (HB)

Udupi, Nov 12: BJP district president Mattaru Ratnakar Hegde along with BJP leaders, party workers paid homage to Union Minister Ananth Kumar by offering flowers to his image at a condolence meeting held at BJP office Kadiyali here on Monday, November 12.

Addressing the condolence meet, Mattaru said, “Ananth Kumar demise was unexpected. He entered politics as ABVP worker during his college days. He was elected to the Lok Sabha, the lower house from Bengaluru South from 1996. He was recognized as one of the strong national leaders. He carved his own space in the national arena. He was an active member in parliamentary committee. His leadership and guidance inspired many emerging leaders. May his soul may rest in peace.”

“He has faced many challenges before BJP came into existence in Karnataka. But he took all problems as challenges and succeeded in overcoming them. I had spoken to him almost eight years ago. His memory was excellent. He used to call me by my name. He encouraged me in all matters. The last time I met him was soon after the assembly election. Nation has lost a good political leader and it would be difficult to fill his space,” he added.

Kaup MLA Lalaji Mendon said, “BJP lost a great leader. He served in eight various departments. He played vital role in uniting the party. He was studious and had in-depth knowledge in all subjects. His contributions to the party are remarkable. He was president of Yuva Morcha in 1989, and I was a district president for Yuva Morcha the same year. He managed all the accounts very well.”

A senior BJP leader Somashekhar Bhat said, “We never expected this will happen to Ananth Kumar. He was a man, who never gave up on his goals. He came into politics through Vidyarthi Parishath. He travelled across Karnataka to strengthen the party. He used to remember everyone by their name. That shows his personality. Let's follow his principles and thoughts.”

Sheela K Shetty, vice president, zilla panchayat Udupi, Shankar Poojary BJP spokesperson and others party workers were present.