Numerous people from Dakshina Kannada rendered their immense support for the Satyagraha movement that shook the British rule. The land famously called as ‘the place where sun never sets’ had almost experienced its rule coming to an end.

It was 1942 , the year that witnessed the zenith of freedom struggle under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhiji. Amongst the many who participated in the Chale Jao movement in Puttur, a lady fought against the British Raj and later served six months in Vellor prison. Meet the first women freedom fighter, Kamalavathi Adhikari (94), wife of late M . D. Adhikari. Residing at Karkala with her son and daughter-in law, Kamalavathi enjoys her daily life and at times recalls the freedom struggle.

There have been very few freedom fighters that have witnessed the freedom struggle and are amongst us. The only desire that the family has is naming a road after the freedom fighter M D Adhikari. Organisations and political leaders should come together and give real credits to the family.

The fact that Kamalavathi Adhikari had denied her pension (granted by the government for the freedom fighters) for 15 years holds testimony to her selfless service rendered to the country.

BSK salutes this great freedom fighter for her selfless contribution.

News as reported in Udayavani English edition.