District Youth Congress President K Chandrareddy felicitated Khetabhai Patel of Bangarpet on the occasion of 60th Independence Day on Wednesday. Mr Khetabai, a freedom fighter, is a relative of former Deputy Prime Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

Mr Patel, born in Khombhadi village of Kutch district, Gujarat in 1912 took part in the freedom struggle, inspired by his close association with Sardar Patel while studying at Nakhatraan. Cutting short his studies, Khetabhai Patel took part in several agitations, satyagrahas and was even jailed alongside leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi and the Sardar.

Mr Patel is also a member of Sanstha Congress and used to take part in prayers held at Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad. Always seen in the Gandhi topi, Khetabhai Patel professes to be practising Gandhian principles.
Southern Railway Advisory Committee Member Kishore Kumar and leaders Harish Bhai and Ramesh were also present.