CM, DCM promise to order probe into Shiroor Swami's death

Bengaluru: Reacting to the shocking demise of the pontiff of Shiroor Matha Sri Lakshmivaratheertha Swami, Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy, on Thursday, July 19, said that the government would order an inquiry into his death. Replying to queries by media persons, the CM said, "Some people have expressed their suspicion about the circumstances of his death. If necessary, an inquiry will be ordered." Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister Dr. G Parameshwara expressed his shock over the death of the seer. "We will order a probe. Some of his followers have raised suspicions over his sudden death," he said. Lakshmivaratheertha Swami passed away on July 19, after a brief illness at the Manipal Hospital. The pontiff, who complained of severe abdominal pain, was admitted to KMC Hospital, Manipal. He died of suspected food poisoning, claimed sources at the Shiroor Matha. However, family members of the seer and some of his followers have alleged that Lakshmivaratheertha was poisoned. Brother of the seer, Lathvya Acharya, has filed a complaint with Hiriyadka Police suspecting foul play in his death. Source: News Karnataka