In a tragic incident on the Mangaluru–Bengaluru National Highway, Shashiprabha (47), a prominent Janata Dal (Secular) leader from Mulki, lost her life in a horrific road accident on Monday night. The fatal crash occurred near Chaudenahalli in Channarayapatna taluk, Hassan district, while she was traveling back towards Mulki in her car.
How the Accident Happened
The accident unfolded when the driver of Shashiprabha's car, 20-year-old Akhil, spotted a dead pig lying on the highway. In an attempt to avoid hitting the animal, Akhil slowed down the vehicle and steered toward the side of the road. However, a speeding Ford car following closely behind failed to slow down, ran over the animal, lost control, and rammed forcefully into Shashiprabha's vehicle from behind.
The severe impact of the collision caused her car to overturn multiple times. Shashiprabha, who was seated in the rear passenger seat, sustained critical injuries. Tragically, she succumbed to her injuries while being rushed to the hospital.
Hit-and-Run and Injured Passengers
According to family sources, the driver of the Ford car involved in the collision failed to stop and fled the scene immediately after the crash.
Three other occupants traveling with Shashiprabha sustained injuries in the impact. They have been identified as Dinesh (34) from Karkala, Sujan (20) from Mandya, and the driver Akhil (20). All three individuals were rushed to a nearby hospital, where they are currently receiving medical treatment.
Community Presence and Funeral Services
Shashiprabha was a resident of Korantabettu, Karnad K.S. Rao Nagar in Mulki, and the sister of the late Shashikanth Shetty, a former president of the Mulki Town Panchayat. Alongside her political work with the JD(S), she was deeply engaged in numerous social, religious, and community service organizations. She also operated the popular 'Yashasvi' Dhabha located near Bellur Cross.
She is survived by her son and daughter. Her last rites were performed at the Kerekadu crematorium in Mulki. JD(S) Dakshina Kannada District President Jake Madhava Gowda, along with a large number of party leaders, workers, and well-wishers, gathered to offer their final respects to the late leader.
