Ananth Kumar, a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) member and the Union Minister of Karnataka, passed away on Monday morning. The demise of Mr. Kumar took place around 1:55 A.M.
Ananth Kumar, who died at the age of 59 years, was suffering from cancer and returned from the U.S., last month, after undergoing treatment at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre, New York. He was receiving treatment at Sri Shankara Cancer Hospital and Research Centre in Shakarapuram, Bengaluru since the past few weeks.
Mr. Kumar was a renowned and admired politician. Ananth Kumar was a part of the BJP led Government under the leadership of Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 1998. He also served as the Union Minister, Civil Aviation Minister, Sports Minister, Tourism Minister and Urban Development and Poverty Alleviation Minister during his political career. He was a six time member of Parliament (MP) of Karnataka.
The Karnataka Government declared the next three days across the state as days of mourning, as a tribute to Ananth Kumar. Mr. Kumar’s body will be kept at National College in Bengaluru.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Ram Nath Kovind, Rahul Gandhi and many other politicians took to Twitter and conveyed their condolences to Ananth Kumar’s family.
Deeply distressing to hear the loss of Shri #AnanthKumar – 6 time consecutive MP of my constituency south blore. A great leader n Minister, deepest condolences to his family. Had several opportunities to meet him n he was always an inspiration. Aatma shanti! @AnanthKumar_BJP https://t.co/VIJmeIYLuH
— Vikram Sampath (@vikramsampath) November 12, 2018
I’m sorry to hear about the passing of Union Minister, Shri Ananth Kumar ji, in Bengaluru, earlier this morning. My condolences to his family & friends. May his soul rest in peace. Om Shanti.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) November 12, 2018
Ananth ji was a remarkable administrator who served various ministerial portfolios. His passing away has left a void in the BJP and Indian polity that can not be filled soon. May God give his family & supporters strength to bear this tragic loss. My deepest condolences. Om Shanti
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) November 12, 2018
Extremely saddened by the passing away of my valued colleague and friend, Shri Ananth Kumar Ji. He was a remarkable leader, who entered public life at a young age and went on to serve society with utmost diligence and compassion. He will always be remembered for his good work.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 12, 2018