Kalaburagi, Karnataka: Senior IAS officer Mahantesh Bilagi, Managing Director of the Karnataka State Minerals Corporation Limited (KSMCL), died in a tragic road accident in Kalaburagi district on Wednesday. Two others travelling with him also lost their lives, police officials confirmed.
Mr Bilagi, a 2012-batch IAS officer known for his administrative efficiency and public welfare initiatives, was travelling from Ramdurg (Belagavi) to Kalaburagi to attend a family wedding when the accident occurred.
Police: Three Dead in Fatal Crash Near Kalaburagi
According to police sources, IAS Bilagi’s vehicle met with a severe accident en route, resulting in the instant death of all three occupants.
Further investigation into the cause of the accident is underway.
Minister Eshwara Khandre Pays Tribute: “Irreparable Loss to the State”
Karnataka Minister for Forest, Ecology and Environment Eshwara Khandre expressed deep sorrow over the officer’s passing.
“The news of the tragic demise of IAS officer Shri Mahantesh Bilagi has deeply saddened me. His loyalty, hard work, and pro-people governance – especially during his tenure as CEO of Bidar Zilla Panchayat – remain unforgettable,” Khandre said in an official statement.
He praised Bilagi’s contributions in development, education, health, rural governance, and transparency.
The minister added:
“His departure is an irreparable loss to the administration and the people. May God grant strength to the bereaved family.”
CM Siddaramaiah, DyCM Shivakumar Also Express Shock
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said he was “deeply grieved” by the sudden loss.
“He rendered honest service as CEO of Zilla Panchayats in several districts and as District Collector. Mahantesh left a mark of efficiency wherever he worked.”
Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar described Bilagi as an “efficient officer known for his public service initiatives”, calling his demise an “irreplaceable loss to society.”
Who Was IAS Mahantesh Bilagi?
- Born: 27 March 1974
- Batch: 2012 (Karnataka cadre)
- Native: Ramdurg, Belagavi
- Current Post: Managing Director, KSMCL
Key Positions Held –
- Managing Director, BESCOM
- Senior roles in Davangere and Udupi districts
- Deputy Commissioner and CEO roles in multiple Zilla Panchayats
Mr Bilagi was widely respected for his administrative discipline, integrity, and work in rural development.
Recent Fatal Crash in Bidar Also Highlighted
Just two days earlier, on November 24, Bidar district witnessed another tragic accident where three people, including a five-year-old girl, died in a head-on collision between two motorcycles on the Chambol–Benakanahalli road. Police confirmed that the injured were admitted to BRIMS Hospital.
