JOIN USVeteran freedom fighter Ammembala Balappa (93) breathed his last at a private hospital in the city on Thursday afternoon. He was suffering from illness for last few days and undergoing treatment in a private hospital, where he passed away.
Born and brought up in Kurnad in Bantwal taluk, Balappa, who remained a bachelor was living with his family members at Marnabailu in Sajipamunnur village for several years now. A staunch patriot, he was active in Quit India Movement with Mahatma Gandhi and was imprisoned for one and half years during the freedom struggle. After he was released from jail in 1944, he began serving as a teacher at Mudradi school in Karkala for three years and simultaneously involved in freedom fight.
He was also recognised as a journalist as he published a Kannada newspaper ‘Mithra’ in 1952. A keen interest in medicine, made him to pursue Homeopathy and Ayurveda studies that brought him the tag of doctor. Balappa also started Bantwal Society Service Co-operative Bank in 1980, to provide financial assistance to the people. He had also served as the member of Land Justice Board between 1975-77, 1980-83, 1985-88, the member of State government’s Backward Class Commission and Mangalore University Academy Council member from 1982 to 1992.
On the occasion of the 50th year of Indian Independence, the State government conferred him with ‘Swarna Swathanthrya’ award.
The last rites of the demised soul will be held near Marnabailu house on Friday afternoon. Public can offer last respects near the Co-operative Bank at Bantwal Bypass.