Shantharaju (68), Founder-Editor of Nijadhani Kannada Daily and a resident of MCDS Layout near Srirampura, passed away at about 12.30 am today at his residence.

A member of Mysuru District Journalists’ Association (MDJA), he was the Founder-President of SC and ST Editors’ Association, Founder-President of Mahadeshwara Vidya Samsthe at Sinduvalli in the taluk and President of Dalit Welfare Trust.

He leaves behind his wife S. Shashirekha, son S. Sunil Kumar, daughter S. Mounashree and a host of relatives and friends. Last rites were held at K.G. Koppal Burial Grounds this afternoon. Karnataka Union of Working Journalists and MDJA have condoled the death of Shantharaju.