Vangaveeti Mohana Ranga

Vangaveeti Mohana Ranga Rao (4 July 1947 – 26 December 1988) was an Indian politician from Andhra Pradesh, known for his prominent role in the state's politics during the 1980s. A member of the Congress Party, he represented the Vijayawada East assembly constituency. Ranga focused on social justice, advocating for land distribution to the landless and the welfare of marginalized communities. He also campaigned against police brutality, positioning himself as a champion of the underprivileged. His activism and confrontational style made him a key figure in Andhra Pradesh's political landscape.

Ranga rose to political prominence after the murder of his elder brother, Vangaveeti Radhakrishna, in 1974, and became a significant figure in Vijayawada's political scene. His career was marked by intense and often violent rivalries, particularly with the Devineni family and the Telugu Desam Party (TDP). His efforts to mobilize the Kapu community and his stance against police excesses earned him widespread support.

On 26 December 1988, Ranga was assassinated while on a hunger strike, leading to unprecedented riots and political unrest in the region. His death at the age of 41 marked a pivotal moment in Andhra Pradesh's socio-political history, leaving a lasting impact on the state's politics and society. Ranga's legacy persists, with statues and memorials in his honour, reflecting his continued influence in the region.