Madikeri: Chowrira Pemmaiah (72), the man who spearheaded the fight for coffee open market, passed away yesterday at a hospital in Mangaluru.

A bachelor, Pemmaiah fought for the open market for coffee, which was under the control of Coffee Board and succeeded in getting the open market.

Pemmaiah served as the President of Hodduru Mandal Panchayat in the 80s and became popular through his efficient administration. He also served as the President of Moornad Educational Institutions and took it to the top.

Last rites were held this afternoon at Hoddur near Moornad, according to family sources.