Chitradurga

Randeep Singh Surjewala on Monday paid his last respects to Karnataka Planning and Statistics Minister D Sudhakar, describing him as an “asset” not only to the Indian National Congress but to the entire state.

Sudhakar passed away early Sunday at Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences, where he had been undergoing treatment for a lung infection for the past two months.

Speaking after offering condolences in Chitradurga, Surjewala remembered Sudhakar as a dedicated Congressman, an ever-smiling personality and a leader deeply connected to grassroots workers and common people.

He said Sudhakar’s humility, accessibility and commitment to the poor and marginalised earned him affection across communities and contributed to his repeated electoral victories.

Surjewala also said Sudhakar’s political journey showed that caste, community and religion become irrelevant when a leader serves people sincerely.

D Sudhakar was a senior Congress leader and represented the Hiriyur Assembly constituency.

According to official sources, his last rites are scheduled to be performed later in the day in Chellakere following Jain traditions.

Siddaramaiah, Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, several state ministers and Congress leaders are expected to attend the funeral.

The Karnataka government has declared a holiday for schools, colleges and government offices in Chitradurga district on Monday.

READ MORE: 10 Muslims women academicians of India

A three-day state mourning period, beginning Sunday, has also been announced as a mark of respect.