D Sudhakar, Karnataka’s planning and statistics minister and a senior Congress leader, passed away in the early hours of Sunday after battling prolonged health complications. He was 66.
According to hospital authorities, Sudhakar died at the Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences in Bengaluru, where he had been undergoing treatment for a lung infection for nearly two months.
In an official medical bulletin, Dr R Chinnadurai, Medical Director of the hospital, confirmed that the minister was declared dead at 3:15 am on May 10.
Sudhakar was a prominent leader from Karnataka and represented the Hiriyur Assembly constituency in Chitradurga district. Over the years, he had built a strong political presence within the Congress and was regarded as an influential leader in the region.
His death triggered an outpouring of grief from political leaders across the state.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said he had recently visited Sudhakar in hospital and remained hopeful about his recovery.
“Sudhakar was deeply committed to public service and worked tirelessly for the people. Leaders like him should have continued serving society for many more years. Despite medical efforts and prayers, we have lost him today. It is a deeply painful moment,” Siddaramaiah wrote in a message on X while extending condolences to the bereaved family.
Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar described Sudhakar’s passing as a personal and political loss, calling him a close associate who consistently fought for development work and welfare projects in his constituency.
“As Hiriyur MLA, Chitradurga district in-charge minister and planning minister, Sudhakar always remained focused on people’s concerns. His affection for the poor and dedication to public welfare defined his politics,” Shivakumar said in his condolence message.
Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao also paid tribute, describing Sudhakar as a leader who played an important role in strengthening the Congress organisation and championing the interests of farmers and backward communities.
“With Sudhakar’s demise, Karnataka has lost a responsible administrator and the Congress party has lost a committed leader,” Rao said while praying for strength for the late minister’s family and supporters.
Sudhakar had remained active in Karnataka politics for more than two decades and was widely known for his grassroots connect and administrative experience.
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