V. Sreenivasa Prasad

Venkataiah Sreenivasa Prasad, commonly known as V Srinivas Prasad, was born on August 6, 1947, in Mysore, now part of Karnataka, to parents M. Venkataiah and D.V. Puttamma. In 1960, he entered into matrimony with Bhagya Lakshmi, and together they raised three daughters.

Prasad had a longstanding association with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) until 1972, actively engaging with the Jan Sangh and Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP).

His political journey commenced on March 17, 1974, with his participation in the bye-election for the Krishnaraja Assembly segment.

Transitioning through various political affiliations, he served as a six-time member of the Lok Sabha representing the Chamrajanagar constituency in Karnataka. Notably, he was elected under the banners of different political parties. Initially aligning with the Indian National Congress, he later joined the Janata Dal (United), then returned to Congress, and finally, he became a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

During his tenure, he held significant ministerial portfolios both at the state and central levels. He served as the Minister for Revenue & Muzrai in the Siddaramaiah-led Karnataka Government from 2013 to 2016 and as the Minister for Food and Consumer Affairs in the Atal Bihari Vajapayee-led Central Government from 1999 to 2004, representing the JD(U).

Prasad contested in 14 elections, winning eight of them, with six victories in nine Lok Sabha polls from the Chamarajanagar constituency. His contributions to politics were marked by his commitment to social justice, particularly advocating for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes and combating social ills like untouchability. His retirement from politics was announced on March 17, 2024, coinciding with the golden jubilee of his political career.

Outside of politics, he was deeply involved in cultural activities across Karnataka and was passionate about utilising sports for empowerment. He established and served as President of the Ashoka Sports Club in Mysore.

Sadly, he passed away on March 28, 2024 due to complications from an acute gastrointestinal infection for which he had been undergoing treatment at Manipal Hospital. Survived by his wife Bhagyalakshmi and three daughters, Prathima Prasad, Poornima, and Poonam, his legacy endures through his contributions to public service and advocacy for social change.