On 26 December 1988, Vangaveeti Mohana Ranga, a prominent political leader in Andhra Pradesh, India and a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA), was assassinated during a hunger strike in Vijayawada.
[6] Ranga’s assassination remains a significant event in Andhra Pradesh's political history, underscoring deep-seated rivalries and its lasting impact on the state’s socio-political fabric.
[3] On December 26, 1988, Ranga was assassinated at the age of 41 while on a hunger strike in Vijayawada, where he was demanding land reforms and protesting against alleged police brutality.
Ranga had previously accused local government officials affiliated with the Telugu Desam Party of plotting to kill him and had called for enhanced security.
[2] On the day of the assassination, 26 December 1988, Ranga was sitting under a canopy outside the city hall in Vijayawada when he and his aides were attacked with axes and knives.
In response, the authorities imposed dusk-to-dawn curfews in 20 cities and towns[1] and deployed over 2,700 security officers from Andhra Pradesh and neighboring states.
[2] By December 27, a statewide general strike had been enforced by Congress Party activists, who attacked shops, state government offices, and vehicles.
[2] Key Incidents The riots saw widespread arson and looting, with iconic establishments such as Alankar, Kalyana Chakravarthy, and Jai Hind theatres being set ablaze.
[3] The political fallout included the resignation of Andhra Pradesh's home minister, Kodela Siva Prasada Rao, and the director general of police (DGP).
Chief Minister Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao ordered the surrender of Devineni Rajasekhar (Nehru), a TDP leader and rival of Ranga and key accused in the case.
[7] Sahasame Naa Oopiri, a 1989 film directed by Vijaya Nirmala and starring Krishna in the lead role was based on the murder of Mohana Ranga.