PM Modi, VP Radhakrishnan hail Ramakrishna Hegde’s legacy of decentralised governance

Bengaluru: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vice President CP Radhakrishnan on Saturday paid tribute to former Karnataka chief minister Ramakrishna Hegde on his birth centenary, recalling his contribution to decentralised governance, democratic institutions and public administration.

In a message on the occasion, Modi described Hegde as a “distinguished leader” who made a significant contribution to public life and had a keen understanding of the changing needs of society.

Modi said Hegde, during his tenure as Karnataka chief minister, gave particular importance to decentralising governance and taking decision-making closer to the people. His efforts to strengthen grassroots democratic institutions and improve efficiency in public administration continued to be remembered, he said.


“His commitment to democracy was particularly evident in his principled stand against the Emergency,” Modi said, adding that Hegde later played an important role in bringing together people committed to democratic values and development.

The Prime Minister said the centenary celebrations provided an opportunity to reflect on Hegde’s contribution to India’s democratic journey and urged the younger generation to learn from his life and values.

At the centenary celebrations held at Vidhana Soudha, Radhakrishnan described Hegde as a statesman, nationalist and “creator of leaders”, saying Karnataka had emerged as a role model for governance under his leadership.

The Vice President highlighted Hegde’s role in decentralising administration, particularly the Karnataka Zilla Parishads, Taluk Panchayat Samitis, Mandal Panchayats and Nyaya Panchayats Act, 1985. He said the initiative brought governance closer to people and was subsequently strengthened through the 73rd Constitutional Amendment, which gave constitutional status to Panchayati Raj institutions.

Radhakrishnan also recalled Hegde’s emphasis on accountability and the strengthening of the Lokayukta in Karnataka. Public office, he said, should be treated as a stewardship of public trust.

He cited Hegde’s belief that strong states strengthen India, strong local governments strengthen states and empowered citizens strengthen local governments.

Recalling a personal interaction, Radhakrishnan said Hegde had once offered a simple definition of money — a comfortable life with a good home, good health, good education and a good car — reflecting his simplicity and perspective on life.

Describing Hegde as a builder of institutions and leaders, Radhakrishnan said great institution-builders could influence generations and urged young people to emulate Hegde’s integrity, courage and commitment to public service.

The programme was attended by Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, former vice-president M Venkaiah Naidu, Union minister Pralhad Joshi, former chief minister Siddaramaiah, family members and others.

Shivakumar had earlier announced that the state would name Karwar Medical College in Uttara Kannada district after Hegde. The government is also considering instituting a Ramakrishna Hegde Best Panchayat Award and naming a major road in Bengaluru’s Shivarama Karanth Layout after him.