Name midday meal scheme after Chennamma Devi: JD (S) MLC

Bengaluru: Janata Dal (Secular) MLC T A Sharavana has urged the Karnataka government to name the midday meal scheme for government school students after Chennamma Devi, the late wife of former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda.

Speaking during the condolence resolution for Chennamma Devi in the Karnataka Legislative Council, Sharavana said naming the scheme after her would help preserve her memory and recognise her contribution to the Deve Gowda family.

He appealed to the government to consider naming the government schools’ midday meal programme after Chennamma Devi. Meanwhile, JD(S) Legislature Party leader Suresh Babu thanked the government for paying tribute to Chennamma Devi in the Legislative Assembly.

As the Assembly proceedings began, Chief Minister DK Shivakumar expressed his condolences over Chennamma Devi’s death. Shivakumar said Chennamma Devi had stood by former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda and his family through various phases of their political and personal lives. He described her as an example of how a political leader’s spouse can stand firmly with the family while remaining away from the political spotlight.

The Chief Minister also recalled the discussions over according state honours to Chennamma Devi. He said that despite various views being expressed on the matter, he took a firm decision to accord her the highest respect. “Those in positions of power should demonstrate generosity of heart. A woman who supported a leader and helped raise a family that contributed significantly to the state deserves respect,” Shivakumar said. He prayed for peace to the departed soul and expressed condolences to the family and all those who had passed away.