From Our Special Correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network

Beltangady, May 21: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Tuesday paid glowing tributes to former MLA Vasant Bangera and recalled that he and the deceased Congress leader had entered the Assembly together and had been very close.

Speaking after participating in the funeral ceremony of the former Congress MLA from Belthangady, Siddaramaiah recalled that he was known for his straightforwardness and direct talk, who was very honest and hardworking.

Siddaramaiah said Vasant Bangera was always concerned about the welfare of the poor and his constituents. “He was a loyal Congressman, who never lobbied to get a ministerial berth despite serving as MLA for five terms. He was a model legislator and a personal friend,” the Chief Minister said.

He mentioned that Vasant Bangera had declined to contest in last year’s assembly elections despite being pressurised. “Had he agreed to contest, he would definitely have been made a minister,” he added.

The Chief Minister agreed to favourably consider the demand for naming the Beltangady bus stand and also erect the statue of Vasant Bangera.

Senior Congress leader B Janardhana Poojary, Assembly Speaker U T Khader and other Congress leaders were present.