Political leaders mourn Dr Acharya

Mangalore, February 14: Leaders across the political spectrum have mourned the sudden demise of Karnataka Higher Education Minister and BJP stalwart Dr VS Acharya, often described as the lone honest face in Chief Minister DV Sadananda Gowda led state cabinet.

National Flag was hoisted at half mast to mourn the death of minister Dr VS Acharya at Vidhana Soudha in Bangalore on Tuesday

In Delhi, External Affairs Minister S M Krishna recalled that during his tenure as Chief Minister, the treasury benches used to listen to Acharya's suggestions seriously during house proceedings.

BJP leader L K Advani, in his condolence message, said Acharya played an important role in Jan Sangh capturing power in Udupi municipal elections in 1960s.

"Udupi was the place where Jan Sangh registered its first victory in any municipal election in South India. Acharya played a very important role in it," he said.

What was remarkable was that for many years, Udipi municipality was acknowledged as the best-run civic body in Karnataka, he said.

BJP General Secretary Ananth Kumar said Acharya was not only an inspiration for the party, but also for the state."He has done yoeman service for Udupi's development," he said.

State Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Jagadish Shettar said Acharya was an honest politician and a committed party worker."His contribution towards development of Udupi is immense. He was one of the architects of building BJP in the state," he said.

Home Minister R Ashok said Acharya was a unique leader and had friends cutting across party lines. "His contribution to build BJP in the state is unforgettable," he said.

Opposition Leader in Assembly Siddaramaiah said his friendship with Acharya spanned 30 years. "He was a gentle politician and rendered yoeman service to the state in his capacity as minister and legislator," he said.

In his condolence message, BJP President Nitin Gadkari expressed profound grief and sorrow on Acharya's demise.

"With the departure of V S Acharya, the BJP has lost a stalwart in Karnataka. It is a personal loss to me as well," Gadkari said in his message.

Acharya was instrumental in the then Jan Sangh's victory in 1968 of Udupi municipal council which had laid foundation for BJP rule in the South, he said added.

Advani and Ananth Kumar will be attending Acharya's funeral to be held tomorrow at Udipi. Kumar said Acharya's body is being taken from Bangalore to Udipi.

"Acharya was known for his honesty and integrity. His death is a big loss to the party. We offer our condolences," Kumar said.