Hyderabad: 74-year-old senior politician and three-time BJP MLA, Baddam Bal Reddy, also known as Golconda Lion, breathed his last in Hyderabad on Saturday night. Reddy was undergoing treatment for several medical complications.

A bulletin from a private hospital in Hyderabad said that he had developed sepsis and renal failure. “His age and other illnesses like inflammatory bowel disease and diabetes contributed to his severity,” the bulletin read. Reddy suffered a multi organ failure and was put on ventilator and haemodialysis support.

In a condolence message, Telangana BJP President Dr K Laxman recollected that he and Bal Reddy had worked together for many decades. He also added that Reddy’s death was a huge blow for the party.

A statement from the chief minister’s office read, "Chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao expressed his condolences on the demise of former MLA Sri Baddam Bal Reddy. The CM conveyed his condolences to the members of bereaved family. The CM commended the services rendered by Bal Reddy in the public life."

Former Union Minister Bandaru Dattatreya also expressed condolences on Bal Reddy's death. After meeting with his family members at their Banjara Hills residence, Dattatreya said, "While we all mourn with heavy hearts, the demise of Baddam Bal Reddy, I would like to hereby communicate that the BJP BC Atma Gowrava Sabha which was scheduled to be held on February 24 stands postponed until further notice. Let's pray for the departed soul and for his bereaved family."

Bal Reddy's mortal remains were shifted to the state BJP office in Hyderabad where several supporters poured in to pay their last respects. The last rites are expected to take place later on Sunday.

Reports suggest that Reddy had been elected from the Karwan constituency thrice in his political career, in 1985, 1989 and 1994. He started his career as an RSS activist and had even contested the recent assembly elections in December but was unsuccessful.