<p>Former Karnataka chief minister and Congress leader N Dharam Singh, popularly known as ‘Ajatashatru’ (one who has no enemies) in political circles, passed away following a heart attack at a private hospital in Bengaluru on Thursday. He was 80.<br /><br />Singh is survived by his wife Prabhavati, sons Vijay Singh and Ajay Singh, and daughter Priya-darshini. Singh served as chief minister from May 2004 to January 2006.<br /><br />Dharam Singh had been ailing for some time due to age-related problems and was being treated for respiratory problems. He was hospitalised twice this year, once in February and then in April.<br /><br />According to family sources, Singh started his day as usual reading newspapers.<br /><br />A little later in the day, Singh complained of chest pain and collapsed. He was rushed to M S Ramaiah Hospital where he was declared dead. Singh had suffered a massive heart attack and the death occurred at 11.54 am.<br /><br />As soon as news about Singh’s demise broke, a steady stream of well wishers and supporters made a beeline to Singh’s house. Leaders across the political spectrum paid their last respects to Singh. <br /><br />The state government, post noon, declared a holiday for all schools and government offices. A three-day mourning has been declared by the government.</p>
<p>Former Karnataka chief minister and Congress leader N Dharam Singh, popularly known as ‘Ajatashatru’ (one who has no enemies) in political circles, passed away following a heart attack at a private hospital in Bengaluru on Thursday. He was 80.<br /><br />Singh is survived by his wife Prabhavati, sons Vijay Singh and Ajay Singh, and daughter Priya-darshini. Singh served as chief minister from May 2004 to January 2006.<br /><br />Dharam Singh had been ailing for some time due to age-related problems and was being treated for respiratory problems. He was hospitalised twice this year, once in February and then in April.<br /><br />According to family sources, Singh started his day as usual reading newspapers.<br /><br />A little later in the day, Singh complained of chest pain and collapsed. He was rushed to M S Ramaiah Hospital where he was declared dead. Singh had suffered a massive heart attack and the death occurred at 11.54 am.<br /><br />As soon as news about Singh’s demise broke, a steady stream of well wishers and supporters made a beeline to Singh’s house. Leaders across the political spectrum paid their last respects to Singh. <br /><br />The state government, post noon, declared a holiday for all schools and government offices. A three-day mourning has been declared by the government.</p>
