Congress Veteran Shamanuru Shivashankarappa Dies at 95

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.

Long Legislative Career in Karnataka

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 hospitalised 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.

Key Roles in Congress and Community Leadership

Within the Congress organisation, 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 criticising his own party governments on issues concerning community welfare and governance.

Educationist and Public Figure Beyond Politics

Apart from 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.

What to Note for Exams?

• Shamanuru Shivashankarappa was a six-time MLA from Davanagere South.
• He served as KPCC treasurer for several decades.
• He was president of the All India Veerashaiva Mahasabha.
• He was among the senior-most legislators in India at the time of his death.

Tributes From Across Political Spectrum

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.