Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Friday, 29 May 2026 expressed deep grief over the passing of Pavagada Venkataramanappa, a senior Indian National Congress leader and former minister, calling his death a loss not just for politics but for society at large.

Context

Posting on X in Kannada, Siddaramaiah wrote: 'ಕಾಂಗ್ರೆಸ್ ಪಕ್ಷದ ಹಿರಿಯ ನಾಯಕ, ಮಾಜಿ‌ ಸಚಿವರಾದ ಪಾವಗಡದ ವೆಂಕಟರಮಣಪ್ಪ ಅವರ ನಿಧನದಿಂದ ದುಃಖಿತನಾಗಿದ್ದೇನೆ' ['I am saddened by the passing of Pavagada Venkataramanappa, a senior Congress leader and former minister']. He described Venkataramanappa as a leader of simplicity, integrity, and mass appeal.

The Chief Minister added that Venkataramanappa's departure has left not only the political arena but 'the entire society poorer.' He also conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family, including Venkataramanappa's son and sitting legislator H.V. Venkatesh.

Policy Backdrop

Siddaramaiah recalled that during his first term as Chief Minister from 2013 to 2018, he appointed Venkataramanappa as Labour Minister in recognition of the latter's deep commitment to workers and the labouring class. He noted that Venkataramanappa made 'good use of the opportunity through honest service' and succeeded in protecting the interests of workers.

The appointment reflected the Karnataka Congress government's emphasis on labour welfare during that term, and Venkataramanappa's tenure as Labour Minister was seen as aligned with the party's working-class credentials.

Stakeholders and Impact

Venkataramanappa was known for his close connect with labourers and the working class in and around Pavagada, a constituency in Tumkur district, Karnataka. His son, H.V. Venkatesh, is a sitting member of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, ensuring the family's continued presence in state politics.

Congress workers and the broader labour community in Karnataka are among those who will feel the loss most acutely. Such tributes from the Chief Minister also serve to reinforce solidarity within the party and acknowledge the contributions of grassroots leaders who built the organisation over decades.

What's Next

Formal condolences from the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee are expected to follow. The tribute may also be referenced at upcoming party meetings or during proceedings of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly. H.V. Venkatesh's continued role in state politics will be watched as the family navigates this transition.

The passing of a senior Congress figure of Venkataramanappa's generation underscores the gradual shift in Karnataka's political landscape, as the party looks to its next generation of leaders to carry forward a legacy rooted in labour welfare and grassroots service.