Bangarappa was a revolutionary socialist: Guv

Governor H R Bhardwaj on Monday said former chief minister S Bangarappa was a revolutionary socialist who toiled to prevent exploitation of the poor and the downtrodden.

Speaking at the valedictory of the three-day function organised to mark the birth anniversary of Bangarappa by the S Bangarappa Vichara Vedike and the S Bangarappa Pratistana here, Bhardwaj said Bangarappa never compromised on his principles to provide justice to the poor. “So, it is appropriate to remember him as a socialist and a champion of the downtrodden,” he stated.

He hailed Bangarappa's son and Sorab MLA Madhu Bangarappa as an able son who is carrying forward his father's legacy. He is a devoted and obedient son. And this is the reason he is attaining success in his life, he added.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said Bangarappa was a rare and colourful politician. Despite being in electoral politics for over four decades, he hardly enjoyed power. He never went after power. He never compromised on his self-respect throughout his long political career, he added.

Whenever he felt his self respect has been hurt, he revolted. Had he compromised on his principles and made adjustments, Bangarappa could have enjoyed power for many years. From the day one of his entering politics, till the last day, he was a socialist, the Chief Minister said.

Legislative Assembly Speaker Kagodu Thimmappa recalled Bangarappa as a ‘solillada saradara.’ As chief minister, he implemented several revolutionary, pro-people programmes such as Ashraya scheme for the welfare of the poor , he added.

Awards presented

Earlier, Bhardwaj and Siddaramaiah presented Kala Bangara award to Raja Hanumanna Nayaka Dore, Sahitya Bangara award to veteran writer Chandrashekara Kambara and Kreda Bangara award to cricketer Anil Kumble. The awards, instituted after the late Bangarappa, carry a purse of Rs one lakh each.

Speaking after receiving the award, Kumble recalled how Bangarappa used to call him up and congratulate whenever Indian cricket team won a match. He also announced that he would like to give back Rs one lakh-purse to the S Bangarappa Pratistana so that it can be utilised for its activities.

Madhu Bangarappa said he was following in the footsteps of his father and that he will strive to fulfill his duties as a son.

He said he was planning to increase the number of awards from next year. Urban Development Minister Vinay Kumar Sorake, JD(S) leader H D Revanna and actor Shivaraj Kumar were present on the occasion.