Bengaluru: Union parliamentary affairs minister Ananth Kumar passed away in Bengaluru on Monday at 2 am from complications following cancer and infections. He was 59. Kumar, who also held the portfolio of minister for chemicals and fertilizer in the Narendra Modi government, had been undergoing treatment at a private hospital in the city and was on a ventilator in the ICU for last few days.
Karnataka government has declared a one-day holiday for today as a mark of respect for Kumar – schools and colleges will remain shut today. The Union Minister’s mortal remains will be kept at his residence in Bengaluru till 7 am on Tuesday and his funeral is expected to take place tomorrow.
Kumar, who had been suffering from lung cancer, had not been keeping well since the last few months. Following the news of his demise, Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted a series of heartfelt tweets, remembering a “remarkable leader” and extended condolences to his family and friends. PM Modi hailed Kumar’s contribution as an “able administrator”, adding that he was a “great asset” to the BJP organisation.
“Extremely saddened by the passing away of my valued colleague and friend, Shri Ananth Kumar Ji. He was a remarkable leader, who entered public life at a young age and went on to serve society with utmost diligence and compassion. He will always be remembered for his good work,” PM Modi wrote.
