Bengaluru, 29 May

Former Karnataka minister Venkataramanappa died following a heart attack at a private hospital in Bengaluru early on Friday, family sources said. He was 80.

Venkataramanappa, who had been undergoing treatment for age-related ailments in a private hospital, breathed his last at around 6am, sources added.

A prominent Congress leader from Tumakuru district, Venkataramanappa had served as MLA four times and held ministerial portfolios twice during his political career. He was widely regarded as a leader of the oppressed sections and had earned popularity in the Pavagada region through his grassroots political work.

He is survived by son HV Venkatesh, the sitting MLA from Pavagada, and other family members.

Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara visited the hospital and paid his last respects to the departed leader. He also consoled MLA H V Venkatesh and the bereaved family members.

Speaking to reporters later, Parameshwara described Venkataramanappa’s death as a "deeply painful loss" and recalled him as a simple and people-oriented leader. “He earned a name for himself through public service and simplicity. I pray that his soul rests in peace and that God gives strength to the family to bear this loss,” he said.

The minister said Venkataramanappa had emerged as a popular leader of the oppressed classes in Tumakuru district through sustainedstruggles and public engagement.

“He had done commendable work during his tenure as minister. Even after his son Venkatesh became MLA from Pavagada, people continued to affectionately refer to Venkataramanappa as MLA.He was immensely popular in the constituency and was also personally close to me. His demise is an irreparable loss to the Congress party,” Parameshwara added.