Bommai: Practised positive politics, kept hate at bay as CM

Haveri: “I have always believed in positive politics and continue to practice it. Even as chief minister, I never engaged in politics of hatred or committed any injustice. I have always done good to those who wronged me. Harassment has never been a part of my life,” clarified former CM and MP Basavaraj Bommai.

He spoke at an event held at his residence in Shiggaon to honour students who secured the highest marks in the Shiggaon-Savanur constituency, marking the 102nd birth anniversary of former CM and Union minister R Bommai.

He said SR Bommai was a bright student who pursued his primary education in Kannada at Kamadolli in Kundgol and excelled in English. During his SSLC exams, despite suffering from fever, a doctor named Tegginmani treated him. Listening to lessons read aloud by a friend, he wrote his exams and topped the school, illustrating the importance of determination and clear goals. “We honour toppers in his name,” he added.

The MP said SR Bommai, as Union education minister, advocated for education as a fundamental right, stressing that all sections, including the poor and marginalised, deserved access to education. He also noted that SR Bommai was involved in the freedom struggle, reportedly planting a bomb on a bridge and cutting telephone lines, and played a key role in movements for farmers, Kannada unification, and the liberation of Goa. “He led the Naragund-Navalgund farmers’ struggle and had close ties to Shiggaon-Savanur, as his mother’s native place was Karadagi. He also practised law in Savanur,” he said.