Siddaramaiah Pays Tribute to Late Leader HY Meti, Announces New Medical College in Bagalkote

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday paid rich tributes to senior leader HY Meti, describing him as a loyal and committed politician who dedicated his life to public service and social harmony.

Speaking to the media after attending Meti’s funeral in Bagalkote, the Chief Minister recalled his long association with the late leader, saying, “Meti was with me shoulder-to-shoulder in the AHINDA movement. He was loyal, disciplined, and devoted to the people.”

Announcing that a new medical college and hospital will soon be established in Bagalkote, Siddaramaiah said, “It was Meti who persistently advocated for this project. Even though he is no longer with us, his efforts have borne fruit — tenders have already been called, and the foundation stone will soon be laid.”

Siddaramaiah recalled that his association with Meti dated back to 1983.

Even when we were in different political parties — Janata Party, Janata Dal, or Congress — he remained steadfast in his support. He respected my decisions and always worked for social unity. Though he belonged to the Kuruba community, he was deeply secular and treated people of all castes and religions with affection,” he said.

The Chief Minister recounted that in 1996, it was decided that Meti would contest the Lok Sabha elections from Bagalkote.

“He resigned from his ministerial post and contested with the blessings of the people — and won. Only a leader with deep public affection can win from Bagalkote,” Siddaramaiah observed, adding that Meti played a crucial role in HD Deve Gowda becoming Prime Minister.

Describing Meti as a “self-made politician,” Siddaramaiah said he rose through the ranks — from Panchayat and APMC president to minister — purely through hard work and dedication.

“Winning as a member of the Kuruba community in Bagalkote is no easy task, yet his mass appeal cut across communities. He was respected even by his political opponents,” the Chief Minister said.

Siddaramaiah said Meti was one of his most loyal associates. “He was a simple and honest man, free from greed or personal ambition. His passing is both a political and personal loss. Bagalkote constituency has become poorer with his demise,” he added.

Reflecting philosophically, Siddaramaiah said, “Birth is accidental, death is certain — but what matters is making life meaningful between the two. Meti lived a meaningful life. It is difficult for another Meti to be born again. May his ideals inspire others, and may his soul rest in peace.”

He also prayed for strength to Meti’s family, friends, and followers to bear the loss.