YSR condoles freedom fighter's death

Hyderabad, Apr 19 (UNI) Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Rajasekhara Reddy today expressed grief over the demise of freedom fighter Gouthu Latchchanna.

In a message here, Dr Reddy recalled the crucial role played by Mr Latchchanna in developmental activities, particularly in North Coastal districts. With his demise, the state had lost a veteran politician who believed in value-based politics.

APCC President K Keshava Rao also expressed shock at the demise of Sardar Gouthu Lachanna, ''an acknowledged champion of the backward classes and weaker sections and a veteran freedom fighter.'' In a statement here, Dr Rao recalled that Mr Lachanna, who was elected to the Madras Legislative Assembly from Visakhapatnam in 1946, continued to be a member of the Legislature till 1983. He was also elected to the Lok Sabha once His services to the welfare of the weaker sections, agriculturists and agriculture labour will be long remembered, Dr Rao added.

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