Hassan (Karnataka), July 4 -- Sounding alarm over a spate of sudden cardiac deaths in Hassan, JD(S) leader and Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy today called for urgent preventive action and proposed a grassroots-level health screening drive.

"Already more than 32 heart attack deaths have occurred, not just in Hassan. Cases are increasing even in other parts of Karnataka. In this context, we must act. From our party's side, we will consider launching a programme to ensure that every individual undergoes a health checkup at the taluk level," Kumaraswamy told reporters.

He urged the government to take immediate steps. "I cannot do this alone. It is the duty of the government and the district ministers. We are ready to support any such initiativ...