Bengaluru: AICC secretary and Karnataka government's Guarantee Committee vice chairman Suraj Hegde died late last night here, party sources said on Monday.
He was aged about 55 years and died at a private hospital due to cardiac arrest, sources said.
Hegde, who was the former in-charge of the Indian Youth Congress, was the grandson of former Chief Minister Devaraj Urs.
Chief Minister D K Shivakumar condoled the death of Hegde.
"I am deeply shocked to learn of the sudden demise of my dear colleague Suraj Hegde, who served as AICC functionary, KPCC Vice-President, and Vice-Chairman of the State Guarantee Committee," Shivakumar posted on 'X'.
His contribution to strengthening the Congress party through organisational acumen and public concern was unparalleled, he said, adding, "Today, we have lost an active leader who always maintained an excellent rapport with party workers."
Top Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi said he was deeply saddened by the passing of Hegde.
"As AICC Secretary and Former In-charge of the Indian Youth Congress, he worked with a deep belief in the party's ideals. The Youth Congress was not just an assignment for him. He mentored young Indians who today carry forward the Congress's commitment to justice and democracy," he said in a post on 'X'.
