Karnataka Legislative Council Deputy Speaker’s body found in railway track

CHIKKAMAGALURU: Karnataka Legislative Council Deputy Speaker S L Dharmegowda was found dead near a railway track in state's Chikkamagaluru district Tuesday morning, police said.

The police further told media that it was a case of suicide and a note was also found near his body.

His body was found around 2 in the morning.

Dharmegowda, a member of Janata Dal (Secular), made headlines this month when he was manhandled during chaos in the council.

In a shocking video, members of the council were seen physically pulling out Dharmegowda of his seat.

JDS chief and former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda expressed grief over Dharmegowda's death.

"It is shocking to learn the news of Deputy Speaker of State Legislative Council and JDS leader SL Dharmegowda's suicide. He was a calm and decent man. This is a loss of the state," news agency ANI quoted Deve Gowda as saying.

Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa expressed shock over the incident, terming it "unfortunate". He lauded the MLC for efficiently conducting the legislative council as its deputy chairman.

JD (S) leader and former chief minister HD Kumaraswamy said Dharme Gowda was like a brother to him. "His death has caused a shock to me. He was an upright politician," Kumaraswamy said in a tweet.

The Chief Minister's Office also condoled Dharmegowda's death.

"The untimely demise of Dharmegowda is the most unfortunate and traumatic event. May his soul rest in peace and give strength to his family and followers," CMO was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.