S Bangarappa worked selflessly for welfare of backward people: PM

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Monday condoled the death of former Karnataka chief minister S Bangarappa, saying he would be remembered for his committment to the welfare of the backward people.

In his message to Bangarappa's widow Shakuntlamma, the prime minister said: "I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing away of your husband. Bangarappa was a widely respected leader who worked selflessly for the welfare of the people of Karnataka and the development of the state."

The former Karnataka chief minister, who entered politics as a Congress member in the state assembly in 1967, died in Bangalore of kidney-related ailments. He was 79.

Bangarappa became a minister in 1977 and later the chief minister in 1990. He was also elected to the Lok Sabha three times.

"Bangarappa will be remembered for his commitment and contribution to the welfare of the backward classes," Manmohan Singh said in the statement.

"I pray to God to give you and the other near and dear ones the strength and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. I pray for peace of the departed soul," the prime minister added.

Bangarappa is survived by his wife, two sons, both of whom are active in politics as well as Kannada film world, and three daughters.