Karnataka’s PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi unveiled a statue of B. Shankaranand in Belagavi on December 17. The bronze statue stands near the late leader’s residence on Club Road. Shankaranand was a veteran Dalit leader and former Union Minister who won seven parliamentary elections. Minister Jarkiholi said, “Mr. Shankaranand, who won seven parliamentary polls, inspired a generation of young leaders. He built a support base across a wide spectrum of society, and led by example.” He added that Shankaranand’s work as a Union Minister is still remembered, especially for establishing a public sector factory in Belagavi and promoting industry, education, and hospitals. “His word on choice of Congress candidates in northern Karnataka was never challenged in the party,” Jarkiholi said. He also promised to help Shankaranand’s family enter and grow in politics. KLE Chairperson Prabhakar Kore recalled that Shankaranand brought him into politics. Kore said, “He took everyone along. He never harassed leaders of other parties. He extended help to people of all parties.” Kore also noted Shankaranand’s influence in party decisions and credited him with supporting KLE hospital’s growth. Former Karnataka Legislative Council Chairperson Veeranna Mathakatti said, “Mr. Shankaranand chose me to represent the party from Ron Assembly constituency. He worked hard for my victory. He worked among the common people and earned the trust of the people.” Several leaders attended the ceremony, including MLC Pradeep Kanagali, MLC Prakash Hukkeri, MLA Ganesh Hukkeri, former MLA S.B. Ghatge, former Minister Shashikant Nayak, former MLC Mahantesh Kavatagimath, Mayor Mangesh Pawar, Deputy Mayor Vani Joshi, and members of the Shankaranand family.