Nagaram village creates history by electing 95-year-old Sarpanch

Guntakandla Ramachandra Reddy, 95, has been elected sarpanch of Nagaram village in Suryapet district, defeating younger candidates. Fondly called Bapu, the nonagenarian actively campaigned, earning massive support and making history in Telangana’s rural politics.

Hyderabad: Nagaram village in Suryapet district has presented one of the most watched tussles as part of the first phase of the gram panchayat polls. The village has elected 95-year-old Guntakandla Ramachandra Reddy as Sarpanch, creating history of sorts.

Fondly called Bapu by the villagers, the nonagenarian defeated much younger contestants by a handsome margin setting a rare record in Telangana’s rural political history.

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“The entire village is like my family. Serving its welfare has always been my responsibility,” Bapu told jubilant supporters after the results were declared. Overwhelmed by the massive turnout and the majority he secured, he said “this sweet experience at 95” was unforgettable.

Despite being close to a century old, Bapu actively campaigned, walked door-to-door and contested alongside the youth, proving that age was just a number when it comes to commitment towards one’s native village. Celebrations erupted across the village as soon as the results were announced.

Bapu’s son and former Minister G Jagadish Reddy was the first to reach his father’s residence. He took his father’s blessings and congratulated him. Former MLA Gadari Kishore Kumar honoured the new Sarpanch with a shawl.
A farmer by profession, Ramachandra Reddy was born around 1930. He is married to Savithramma and is father to five children. Known for his simplicity, Bapu has long been a respected elder and guiding force in village affairs.