Pall of gloom at Somanahalli, native of S M Krishna; arrangements made for last rites tomorrow

Mysuru: There was a pall of gloom at Somanahalli, in Maddur taluk, Mandya district, a native of former chief minister S M Krishna (92), who passed away in Bengaluru, in the early hours of Tuesday.

All arrangements are being made at Somanahalli, on the premises of Coffee Day, belonging to S M Krishna family, for the final rites to be conducted on Wednesday evening.

The relatives and the villagers expressed their deep sorrow over the death of their favourite leader. They recalled his service to the village and the state. They offered condolences by placing the photo of Krishna at the residence.

Excavators were used to clear the weeds and level the land, where the last rites would be conducted. S M Krishna had constructed a huge house in Somanahalli, and used to spend time at the Coffee Day, whenever he visited the village, recalled the residents. Now, his last rites are being conducted at the same place.

Deputy Commissioner Kumar and Superintendent of Police Mallikarjuna Baladandi inspected the arrangements.

DC Kumar and others inspect the arrangements being made at Somanahalli, to conduct the last rites of S M Krishna, at Somanahalli, Maddur taluk, Mandya district, on Tuesday.

Speaking to media persons, SP Baladandi said the mortal remains of S M Krishna will be brought to Maddur via road on Wednesday morning. The body will be kept for public darshan from 10.30 am to 3 pm. The last rites would be conducted at 4 pm.

As thousands are expected to attend the last rites, suitable bandobast will be made on Wednesday.

A large number of VIP's from all the parties are expected to attend the last rites tomorrow. Around 300 police personnel will be deployed on the premises. Additional personnel from other districts are also being summoned, he said.