The impactful life of VS Achuthanandan, a former chief minister of Kerala and a founding member of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), is being celebrated as thousands gather for his funeral, which takes place this Wednesday.
Tributes Pour In for Veteran Indian Communist Leader VS Achuthanandan
Tributes Pour In for Veteran Indian Communist Leader VS Achuthanandan
Thousands mourn the passing of VS Achuthanandan, a pivotal figure in Kerala's political landscape.
Achuthanandan, affectionately known as "VS," passed away at the age of 101 on Monday, leaving behind a legacy as one of Kerala's most revered leaders. His political journey began against the backdrop of personal adversity, overcoming poverty and repression. With his funeral set to occur in his hometown of Alappuzha district, the event is expected to draw an outpouring of support and respect from the community.
Having started working at a young age following significant family losses, Achuthanandan joined the Communist Party at just 17 years old. His role as a fierce advocate for the rights of oppressed workers led him to significant moments in Kerala's history, including a 1946 revolt where he was arrested and faced torture for his activism.
Over the years, he served multiple terms as the leader of the opposition and as Kerala's chief minister from 2006 to 2011 after an unyielding commitment to addressing issues such as labor rights, education, and environmental protection. His defiance against party leadership showcased his principles, notably in his support for the widow of a murdered party member.
Kerala's current Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, has lauded Achuthanandan as a profound source of inspiration. M.A. Baby, the CPI(M)'s general secretary, commended him as a lifetime advocate for the marginalized, stating, “Fighting for the rights of the oppressed and the exploited was the guiding principle of his life.”
As Kerala prepares to honor his remarkable life, Achuthanandan's contributions will undoubtedly resonate within the heart of the political sphere for years to come.
Having started working at a young age following significant family losses, Achuthanandan joined the Communist Party at just 17 years old. His role as a fierce advocate for the rights of oppressed workers led him to significant moments in Kerala's history, including a 1946 revolt where he was arrested and faced torture for his activism.
Over the years, he served multiple terms as the leader of the opposition and as Kerala's chief minister from 2006 to 2011 after an unyielding commitment to addressing issues such as labor rights, education, and environmental protection. His defiance against party leadership showcased his principles, notably in his support for the widow of a murdered party member.
Kerala's current Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, has lauded Achuthanandan as a profound source of inspiration. M.A. Baby, the CPI(M)'s general secretary, commended him as a lifetime advocate for the marginalized, stating, “Fighting for the rights of the oppressed and the exploited was the guiding principle of his life.”
As Kerala prepares to honor his remarkable life, Achuthanandan's contributions will undoubtedly resonate within the heart of the political sphere for years to come.
