Senior Congress leader and six-time MLA Shamanuru Shivashankarappa passed away on Sunday at a private hospital in Davanagere due to age-related ailments. A towering figure in Karnataka politics, his death at the age of 95 has drawn widespread tributes across party lines, marking the end of a long and influential public life rooted in service, education, and community leadership.
Shivashankarappa was the senior-most legislator in Karnataka and among the most experienced lawmakers in the country. He represented the Davanagere South Assembly constituency six times and was known for his consistent electoral presence over decades. He had been hospitalized since October 23 and passed away at 6.20 pm, according to family members and hospital officials. His political journey also included a stint as a Member of Parliament and ministerial responsibilities in the state government.
Within the Congress organization, Shivashankarappa served as treasurer of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee for several decades, playing a crucial role in party management. He was also president of the All India Veerashaiva Mahasabha, the apex body of the Veerashaiva-Lingayat community. Known for his forthright views, he often spoke candidly, even criticizing his own party governments on issues concerning community welfare and governance.
Beyond politics, Shivashankarappa was a respected educationist and industrialist. He founded several educational institutions, significantly contributing to access to education in central Karnataka. His family continues his public legacy, with his son S S Mallikarjun serving as Karnataka Minister for Mines and Geology and Horticulture, and his daughter-in-law Prabha Mallikarjun representing Davanagere in Parliament.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah described him as a politician who stayed away from accusations and devoted his life to public welfare. Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar termed his death an irreparable loss to the Congress and the nation. Leaders including Mallikarjun Kharge, H D Deve Gowda, B S Yediyurappa, and several Union ministers and state leaders also expressed grief, recalling his simplicity, integrity, and enduring contribution to Karnataka’s public life.
Q1. Who was Shamanuru Shivashankarappa?
Answer: Shamanuru Shivashankarappa was a prominent Congress leader and six-time MLA from Karnataka, known for his extensive political career and contributions to education and community welfare.
Q2. What were some of Shivashankarappa's key roles?
Answer: He served as the treasurer of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee and was president of the All India Veerashaiva Mahasabha, significantly impacting community leadership.
Q3. How did Shivashankarappa contribute to education?
Answer: He founded several educational institutions in central Karnataka, enhancing access to education and promoting learning in the region.
Q4. What was the political legacy of Shivashankarappa?
Answer: His political legacy includes a long tenure as a legislator, ministerial roles, and active participation in community leadership, influencing many in Karnataka.
Q5. How did leaders react to Shivashankarappa's passing?
Answer: Political leaders across party lines expressed their condolences, highlighting his integrity, dedication to public service, and his significant role in Karnataka's politics.
Question 1: Who was the six-time MLA from Davanagere South?
A) D K Shivakumar
B) Shamanuru Shivashankarappa
C) H D Deve Gowda
D) Mallikarjun Kharge
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which community organization did Shivashankarappa lead?
A) All India Congress Committee
B) All India Veerashaiva Mahasabha
C) Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee
D) Central Education Board
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What was one of Shivashankarappa's contributions outside politics?
A) Industrialist
B) Scientist
C) Sportsman
D) Artist
Correct Answer: A
Question 4: At what age did Shivashankarappa pass away?
A) 85
B) 90
C) 95
D) 100
Correct Answer: C
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