Freedom fighter VN Reddy passes away at 103

TUMAKURU: Freedom fighter V N Reddy, from Pavagada in the district, has passed away at the age of 103. He was a close associate of former Vice President Neelam Sanjiva Reddy and other prominent leaders.

V N Reddy had participated in the Indian independence movement and was known for his bravery and innovative methods of protest. One notable incident was when he and his associates set fire to the records room in the Pavagada taluk office by attaching cloth to rat tails, dousing them in kerosene, and releasing the rats into the room. This act was aimed at destroying British-era records.

He was also involved in a plot to loot the British treasury, which led to his arrest and imprisonment in Tumkur jail along with seven others. They were later transferred to Bangalore Central Jail, where they spent a total of 32 days.

After his release from jail, V N Reddy traveled extensively throughout Pavagada taluk, spreading awareness about the freedom movement and inspiring others to join the struggle for independence.