Thiruvananthapuram:
Kerala bid farewell to its veteran Communist leader and former Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan, who passed away on Monday, 21 July, at the age of 101. He died at SUT Hospital, Pattom, in Thiruvananthapuram, where he had been admitted on 23 June following a heart attack and age-related ailments. The late leader will be cremated with full State honours at the Shanthi Kavadam crematorium on Wednesday, 23 July.
Achuthanandan’s century-long life was marked by a steadfast commitment to the Communist movement and a resolute defence of the rights of marginalised communities. Born in 1924, he was a freedom fighter who rose through the ranks of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and played a pivotal role in shaping Kerala’s political landscape.
He served as Kerala’s Chief Minister from 2006 to 2011, gaining a reputation for his uncompromising stand against corruption and his emphasis on transparent governance. His bold anti-encroachment campaign in Munnar, efforts to modernise the State’s Information Technology sector, and initiatives to protect environmental assets were among the hallmarks of his administration.
After suffering a mild stroke in 2019, Achuthanandan retired from public life and lived in seclusion at his son V. Arun Kumar’s Thiruvananthapuram home, receiving support and care from his family.
People of all political persuasions expressed deep sorrow upon hearing of his death. Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) and wrote:
“Saddened by the passing away of Shri VS Achuthanandan Ji. A stalwart of Indian politics, he was deeply rooted in the ethos of public service and social justice. His contributions to Kerala and to the nation will always be remembered. Condolences to his family and supporters. Om Shanti.”
In an official message, the Prime Minister added that Achuthanandan was a “remarkable leader who remained committed to the principles he stood for” and that his contributions to public service would live on.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan also paid their respects in statements. According to Chief Minister Vijayan, he was a “people’s leader” whose life represented “a relentless fight for justice, equality, and transparency.” “Comrade VS was a symbol of ideological clarity and moral strength,” he said. “There is a huge void left by his absence.”
Achuthanandan, who was one of the founding members of the CPI(M) after the party split in 1964, remained influential for decades, frequently putting the good of the public ahead of political expediency. He maintained a large following at the grassroots level despite internal party strife.
On July 23, the Kerala government declared a day of mourning. To allow the public to pay their respects prior to the cremation, Achuthanandan’s body will lie in state at the Legislature Complex in Thiruvananthapuram starting early in the morning, and all government offices will remain closed.
Leading political figures, seasoned members of the Communist party, and regular citizens will all attend the full State honours ceremony that will accompany his cremation. Following the usual procedures, there will be a procession through Thiruvananthapuram’s streets.
The national significance of his role was reflected in tributes from all over India. Environmentalists remembered his leadership in conservation efforts, social activists praised his support for the underprivileged, and fellow Communist leaders hailed his commitment to the working class.
V.S. Achuthanandan’s departure marks the end of a significant period in Kerala’s political history following independence. He leaves behind a legacy of unwavering belief, moral leadership, and a persistent vision for social justice.
