Grief-stricken Siddaramaiah writes open letter to well-wishers
FollowThe sudden demise of my son Rakesh has caused immense grief to me and my family. He has departed not only our family but has left lakhs of his well wishers. It may take a long time for my family to come out of this grief. For me personally, this grief is everlasting.
The whole state, irrespective of caste, religion, party, prayed wholeheartedly for him when he was admitted to the hospital in Belgium. This love and care of my people has made me spellbound. I will never forget the people of Karnataka who I believe are my extended family, who offered their prayers in temples, mosques and churches for the good health of my son as if my family was a segment of their families.
Also, I will never forget the help extended by a Bangalorean, Vijayendra, now a resident of Belgium, and his wife. We could not save Rakesh who was suffering from multiple organ failure. I can never forget the moment when his body was brought to Mysore. I experienced a glimpse of 'human empathy’ when thousands of people across the state came to bid adieu to Rakesh. I extend my pardon if anyone has experienced any inconvenience at that time.
Vaju Bhai Vala, Honourable Governor, Digvijay Singh, AICC General Secretary, Mallikarjuna Kharge, Opposition leader, Oommen Chandy, CM of Kerala, BS Yeddyurappa, HD Kumara Swamy, Jagadish Shettar, Sadananda Gowda, SM Krishna, ex-CMs of Karnataka and all my colleagues, MLAs, MPs, pontiffs, writers, journalists and all my well-wishers were with me at this time. Many sent their condolences through social media. People of the whole state and people of other states also were with me in this moment of grief. I owe my thanks to one and all.
I pray to God never to afflict any old parent with a situation like mine, where they have to witness the demise of their grown-up children in front of their eyes.
