116th birth anniversary of Sardar Gouthu Latchanna Celebrated in Visakhapatnam

The 116th birth anniversary of veteran freedom fighter and social reformer Sardar Gouthu Latchanna was celebrated in Visakhapatnam on Saturday.

Marking the occasion, Andhra Pradesh BC Employees Federation state president Polaki Srinivasa Rao garlanded Latchanna’s statue at Green Park Hotel Junction. He recalled that Latchanna, who was born in Palasa, Srikakulam district, had joined the freedom movement at the young age of 17. At 33, he actively participated in the Quit India movement, leading the people of South India in the struggle for independence.

Srinivasa Rao noted that Latchanna had the rare distinction of being elected MLA five times, as well as an MP and MLC simultaneously. He also played a pivotal role in organising the All India Kisan Mahasabha in Andhra Pradesh, championing the cause of farmers and the oppressed.

Buridi Kalyani, president of the AP State BC Employees Women’s Wing, highlighted that Latchanna was equally committed to eradicating untouchability and worked tirelessly for the upliftment of the downtrodden.

Visakhapatnam East ACP K. Lakshmanamurthy and Visakhapatnam South MLA Ch. Vamsikrishna Srinivas Yadav also spoke on the occasion, paying tributes to the leader and his enduring legacy.