Union Minister Ananth Kumar dies, PM, President condole

The senior BJP leader was 59.

He was suffering from cancer.

In the PM Narendra Modi-led government, he was holding two portfolios-Parliamentary Affairs and Chemicals and Fertilizers.

According to reports, his wife and two daughters were beside him in his last moments.

He had represented south Bengaluru constituency as an MP for six times.

Politicians condole his death:

President Ram Nath Kovind described the death of the  leader as a 'tragic loss'.

"Sad to hear of the passing of Union minister and veteran parliamentarian Shri H.N. Ananth Kumar. This is a tragic loss to public life in our country and particularly for the people of Karnataka. My condolences to his family, colleagues and countless associates #PresidentKovind," he tweeted.

PM Modi said Kumar will be remembered for his good works.

"Extremely saddened by the passing away of my valued colleague and friend, Shri Ananth Kumar Ji. He was a remarkable leader, who entered public life at a young age and went on to serve society with utmost diligence and compassion. He will always be remembered for his good work," he said.

"Ananth Kumar Ji was an able administrator, who handled many ministerial portfolios and was a great asset to the BJP organisation. He worked hard to strengthen the Party in Karnataka, particularly in Bengaluru and surrounding areas. He was always accessible to his constituents," the PM tweeted.

He said: "I spoke to his wife, Dr. Tejaswini Ji and expressed condolences on the passing away of Shri Ananth Kumar Ji. My thoughts are with his entire family, friends and supporters in this hour of grief and sadness. Om Shanti."

Congress president Rahul Gandhi posted: "I’m sorry to hear about the passing of Union Minister, Shri Ananth Kumar ji, in Bengaluru, earlier this morning. My condolences to his family & friends. May his soul rest in peace. Om Shanti."

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee tweeted: "Saddened at the passing away of Ananth Kumar ji, six time MP and Union cabinet minister. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and supporters."