Former MP Adikesavulu Naidu passes away

Former Chittoor MP D K Adikesavulu Naidu passed away at Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences in Bangalore after a failed bypass surgery.

He was 71 and is survived by wife, a son and two daughters. He was admitted to the hospital in a critical condition on Tuesday night.

Initially a liquor baron, Naidu joined the Telugu Desam Party and was elected from the Chittoor Lok Sabha constituency in 2004 elections. Later, he switched his loyalties to the Congress in July 2008. He also served as the Chairman of Tirumala Tirupathi Devasthanam for two terms.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy, Leader of Opposition N Chandrababu Naidu, Pradesh Congress Committee President Botsa Satyanarayana and other leaders mourned Naidu's death.

"I am deeply shocked and grieved to hear about the demise of Audikesavulu Naidu. He was a philanthropist who was known for his compassion and was a pious person. As a two time Chairman of Tirumala Tirupati Devathanam he had served a lot for the upkeep of the temple and promotion of devotional activities. I convey my sincere condolences to the bereaved members of the family and pray to God to rest his soul in peace," Tamil Nadu Governor K Rosaiah said in a message.