Former Union minister and BJP MP V Sreenivasa Prasad passed away at the age of 76 on Monday morning. The politician, representing Chamarajanagar Lok Sabha constituency in Karnataka, had been battling illness and was under medical care at a private hospital until his demise in the early hours of the day.

With a distinguished political career spanning over five decades, Prasad had served as an MP six times from Chamarajanagar and held the position of MLA from Nanjangud in Mysuru district for two terms.

In a significant milestone earlier this year, on March 18, he announced his retirement from electoral politics, marking 50 years of dedicated service to the public.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended condolences to Prasad’s family on X, “I am extremely pained by the passing away of senior leader and MP from Chamarajanagar, V Sreenivasa Prasad. He was a champion of social justice, having devoted his life to the welfare of the poor, downtrodden and marginalised. He was very popular for his various works of community service. Condolences to his family and supporters. Om Shanti.”

V Sreenivasa Prasad’s political journey

Prasad’s political journey began in 1974 when he contested Assembly elections as an independent candidate. He later aligned with several political parties, including the Janata Party, Congress, JD(S), JD(U), and the Samata Party, before eventually joining the BJP.

Additionally, he served as the Union Minister of State for Consumer Affairs Food and Public Distribution in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government from 1999 to 2004.

Throughout his career, Prasad remained committed to serving the people and advocating for the rights of marginalized communities, particularly Dalits. His contributions were recognized across party lines, with Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah acknowledging him as a strong voice for oppressed communities, emphasizing his role in the fight against injustice and inequality.

Expressing deep sorrow at Prasad’s demise, former Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa praised him as an influential Dalit leader who left an indelible mark on the politics of both the state and the nation.

Reflecting on their long standing relationship, Siddaramaiah expressed disbelief at Prasad’s sudden departure, reminiscing about their recent meeting and mutual respect despite political differences.

(With PTI inputs)