He was 49.
He is survived by his wifeand a 15-year-old daughter.
A release from BJP's media wing said Deshpande was on his routine stroll in the precincts of residential quarters in JIPMER last night and suddenly developed chest pain.
He was rushed to JIPMER hospital where he collapsed despite intensive treatment early this morning.
Lieutenant Governor Kiran Bedi, former Chief Minister N Rangasamy, BJP's local unit president V Saminathan,party's in charge hereMahesh Giri, MP and leaders of various wings of the party were among those whopaid homageby placing wreaths on the body of the leader at his residence in JIPMER campus.