Senior IAS officer Mahantesh Bilagi, along with two of his relatives, died after their car crashed into a divider and overturned on Tuesday evening in Kalaburagi district, police confirmed. The accident occurred near Gounahalli while Bilagi, Managing Director of the Karnataka State Minerals Corporation Ltd (KSMCL), was on his way to attend a relative’s wedding.
Family Members Also Killed in Accident
The other victims in the accident were Bilagi’s relatives, Shankar Bilagi and Eranna Bilagi. Police are investigating the exact circumstances of the crash, though initial reports suggest the vehicle lost control before hitting the divider.
Leaders Express Grief Over Loss
Mourning his demise, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said Bilagi’s passing has caused him immense grief. “He had rendered honest service as the Chief Executive Officer of Zilla Panchayats in several districts and as a District Collector. Mahantesh had left his mark of efficiency everywhere he carried out his duties,” the CM said.
Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar described him as an “efficient officer, who was renowned for his public service initiatives.” He called Bilagi’s death an “irreplaceable loss to society.”
Bilagi was widely respected for his administrative skills and commitment to public service, leaving a lasting impact in the districts he served. Tributes continue to pour in from colleagues, officials, and citizens across the state.
