From Our Special Correspondent

Daijiworld Media Network

Bengaluru, Jul 10: Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai underscored the need for respecting all religions to bring about harmony and equanimity in society.

He was speaking at a function held at the Ambedkar Institute of Technology in Nagarabavi in the city to pay homage to retired Engineer-in-Chief and State Special Secretary Dr L Shivalingaiah, who was also the founder and director of Sri Anand Cooperative Society Ltd., on Sunday.

Bommai said he had the privilege of meeting and discussing with Dr Shivalingaiah and had even visited him at his residence several times. Dr Shivalingaiah was very close to my father and was instrumental in preparing the masterplan for several irrigation schemes in the State besides being the key person in drawing up the plans and construction of Victoria Hospital, Nimhans, he said and pointed out that the several institutions in the name of Dr BR Ambedkar were the result of his foresight and planning.

Dr Shivalingaiah was the national Vice President of BJP Dalit Morcha, the Chief Minister said and mentioned that he was a role model for the present generation.

Dr Raviprakash, son of Dr Shivalingaiah, also spoke on the rare qualities and leadership of his father.