Bangalore: Five former MLAs one of them a centenarian, who were a witness to the historic first session in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly way back in 1952 were felicitated at another historic occasion, when the Assembly celebrated its diamond jubilee on June 18, Monday.

If DG Timmegowda from Tiptur, who is 103 was the senior most of all, others honored were Ambadas Rao (Yadgir), Madappa  from Chamrajnagar, Vasanth Rao L Patil from Chikkodi,  and Mulka Govinda Reddy from Chitradurga.
They were honored with great reverence by  Chief Minister DV Sadananda Gowda and Opposition  leader Siddaramaiah by presenting them with garlands and mementoes.

Several dignitaries graced the historic occasion. Among those present were Governor HR Bharadwaj, former CM’s Dharam Singh, Kumaraswamy, Yeddyurappa,  union minister  Veerappa Moily, MP  DB Chandregowda, former speakers VS Kaujalagi, MV Venkatappa and BG Banakar.

M N Venkatachalaiah, former Chief Justice of India, who delivered the key note address said reasoned argument  has been shelved aside for power in today’s coalition politics that was taking toll on development, with parties taking undue interest in grabbing power and having their way. He also spoke on the necessity to institutionalize political parties and also a policy that can keep a tab on political parties and regulate them.

Chief Minister DV Sadananda Gowda and several other dignitaries addressed the great occasion. The entire Vidhana Saudha was illuminated and the area wore a festive look  giving a breathtaking beauty of the architectural splendor.