Karnataka Legislative Council Deputy Chairman Found Dead. Cops Say Suicide

Karnataka Legislative Council Deputy Chairman SL Dharmegowda was found dead near a railway track in state's Chikkamagaluru district this morning, police said today.

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.

Mr 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 Mr Dharmegowda of his seat.

Political leaders from all major Karnataka parties paid tribute to him

Party colleague and former Prime Minister, H D Deve Gowda, told NDTV, "Dharmegowda's death is a great sorrowful thing for me. I am associated with that family since 1972. The drama went on between these two national parties. And ultimately - this boy who was a decent man... succumbed. He was hurt very badly. The drama went on in the Council. I am so sorry. I am hurt very badly today.

D K Shivakumar, KPCC President, said, "It is a very sorry affair. He was a very simple man. It is very shocking to all of us. On behalf of my party, and myself, we pray that his soul rests in peace."

Chief Minister BS 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," Mr Kumaraswamy said in a tweet.

The Chief Minister's Office also condoled Mr 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.