Karnataka legislature pays tributes to Mandela

Rich tributes were paid to anti-apartheid activist Nelson Mandela by both Houses of the Karnataka Legislature with members saying he belonged not only to South Africa but also to India as he followed in the footsteps of Mahatma Gandhi.

Members observed a minute's silence as a mark of respect to Mandela, who died early today at his home in the Johannesburg suburb of Houghton due to illness.

Agriculture Minister Krishna Byre Gowda said Mandela was considered one among Indians as he followed in the footsteps of Mahatma Gandhi, an embodiment of non-violence and world peace. "We considered Mandela as one among us and therefore we bestowed on him the Bharat Ratna," he said.

Opposition JDS Leader H D Kumaraswamy said Mandela was a symbol of peace and non-violence and though he is no more, his legacy will refuse to die down till end of this world.

BJP Floor Leader Jagadish Shettar said, "He gave voice to the voiceless and was a champion who fought against the demonic apartheid regime in South Africa."

KJP President and legislator B S Yeddyurappa equated Mandela in the league of Mahatma Gandhi and B R Ambedkar, who fought for the rights of the suppressed people.

Congress member K R Ramesh and Sarvodaya Karnataka Paksha member K S Puttanaiah also paid tributes to Mandela.

In the Council, S R Patil, leader of the House, said the world has lost a great fighter who spent over 27 years in jail. The House observed a minute's silence and was adjourned for ten minutes.