Tragic Accident Claims Lives of KSMCL MD and Two Relatives
On the evening of 25 November 2025, Mahantesh Bilagi — Managing Director of Karnataka State Minerals Corporation (KSMCL) — tragically lost his life in a road accident near Gounahalli in Jewargi taluk of Kalaburagi district. Two of his relatives, Shankar Bilagi and Eeranna Bilagi, also died in the crash.
According to police reports, the car in which the group was travelling — heading from Vijayapura towards Kalaburagi for a family wedding — lost control after attempting to avoid a stray dog or two‑wheelers. The vehicle hit a road divider and overturned around 5:30–6:00 pm.
While five people were reportedly in the car, the three named above did not survive. The driver reportedly escaped with minor injuries.
Who Was Mahantesh Bilagi
Bilagi, 51, was a 2012‑batch IAS officer of the Karnataka cadre.
Before being appointed MD of KSMCL in January 2025, he had served as MD of Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (BESCOM) and held various administrative roles including Deputy Commissioner of districts such as Davanagere.
Originally from Ramadurg in Belagavi district, Bilagi rose from modest beginnings: his mother worked as a household help. His journey from humble origins to high administrative office is remembered by many.
His commitment to public service, administrative efficiency, and work in rural development and governance earned him respect across Karnataka.
Reactions and Official Condolences
Following his death, several senior leaders expressed grief over the loss:
Siddaramaiah — Chief Minister of Karnataka — described Bilagi’s death as a “deep loss to the state,” praising his integrity and honest service.
D. K. Shivakumar — Deputy Chief Minister — also condoled the loss, describing Bilagi as an efficient officer whose absence would be acutely felt.
Other government officials and local communities lauded his contributions to public welfare, infrastructure, and transparent governance.
Importance of Road Safety: A Wake-Up Call
The tragic accident underscores the vulnerability of road users — even high‑ranking public servants — to unexpected hazards such as stray animals or sudden obstacles. In this case, according to initial police reports, the vehicle swerved to avoid a dog or two‑wheelers and lost control.
It highlights a broader issue faced across many parts of Karnataka and India: the need for safer driving practices, better road infrastructure, and preventive measures to avoid collisions due to stray animals or poor road conditions.
FAQ
Q: When and where did the accident occur?
A: The accident took place on the evening of 25 November 2025 near Gounahalli, Jewargi taluk, Kalaburagi district.
Q: Who were the victims?
A: The victims were IAS officer Mahantesh Bilagi (MD, KSMCL), his brother Shankar Bilagi, and relative Eeranna Bilagi.
Q: What was the cause of the crash?
A: According to police, the car swerved to avoid a stray dog (or two‑wheelers), hit the road divider, lost control and overturned.
Q: Was anyone else injured?
A: Reports indicate that the driver escaped with minor injuries; some other passengers may have been injured.
Q: What positions did Bilagi hold before becoming KSMCL MD?
A: Prior to joining KSMCL in January 2025, he served as MD of BESCOM and as Deputy Commissioner in various districts including Davanagere.
source credit : Express News Service
Published on : 26TH November
Published by : SARANYA
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