Bangalore, Sep 3 - Karnataka Thursday expressed shock and sadness over the death of Andhra Pradesh chief minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy in a chopper crash and declared a two-day mourning in his memory.

'As a mark of respect to Rajasekhara Reddy, two-day mourning will be observed in the state Thursday and Friday. Government offices, schools, colleges and banks will observe holiday Friday under the Negotiable Instruments Act,' state Home Minister V.S. Acharya told reporters after an emergency cabinet meeting held here.

The cabinet also mourned the death of the chief minister's Special Secretary S. Subrahmaniam, chief security officer A.S.C. Wesley, pilot S.K. Bhatia and co-pilot M.S. Reddy who were in the Bell-430 helicopter along with Reddy.

'The state cabinet has expressed condolence on the demise of Reddy, who was a great administrator and a popular leader. We remember his contribution to the uplift of society. May his bereaved family get endurance to sustain this grievous loss. Our condolences are with the people of Andhra Pradesh,' Acharya said.

The cabinet, which met in the absence of Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa who is away in China on an official visit, observed a minute of silence in memory Reddy and the four others who died with him.