PM Modi, Rahul Gandhi pay tribute to VS Achuthanandan
Achuthanandan, a towering figure in India’s Communist movement and one of the most influential political leaders in Kerala’s history, passed away at the age of 101.
Achuthanandan, a towering figure in India’s Communist movement and one of the most influential political leaders in Kerala’s history, passed away at the age of 101.
Achuthanandan, a towering figure in India’s Communist movement and one of the most influential political leaders in Kerala’s history, passed away at the age of 101.
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday condoled the death of veteran CPM leader and former Kerala Chief Minister V S Achuthanandan, remembering him as a leader who dedicated his life to public service and Kerala’s development.
Achuthanandan, a towering figure in India’s Communist movement and one of the most influential political leaders in Kerala’s history, passed away at the age of 101. According to an official bulletin from Pattom SUT Hospital, he died at 3.20 pm while under treatment in the critical care unit.
“Saddened by the passing of former Kerala CM Shri VS Achuthanandan Ji. He devoted many years of his life to public service and Kerala's progress,” Modi said in a post on X. “I recall our interactions when we both served as Chief Ministers of our respective states. My thoughts are with his family and supporters in this sad hour.”
Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi also mourned the loss, calling Achuthanandan “a tireless voice for justice and democracy.”
“A champion of the poor and the marginalised, he upheld the values of principled politics through bold decisions — especially on issues of environmental and public welfare. My condolences to his family, comrades, and admirers,” Gandhi said on X.
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge echoed similar sentiments. “Ideological differences aside, his steadfast commitment to his principles earned him respect as a crusader for Democracy, public welfare and environmental issues. My thoughts are with his family, friends and fellow comrades,” he wrote.
Congress MP from Wayanad Priyanka Gandhi Vadra took to social media to express condolences to Achuthanandan's family and to "all who were touched by his life and work". "His contribution to Kerala and to the nation will be respected and remembered for years to come," Vadra said on X.
Achuthanandan, who had been undergoing treatment since June 23 following a cardiac arrest. A lifelong advocate for workers' rights, land reforms, and social justice, he served as Kerala’s Chief Minister from 2006 to 2011. He was elected to the state assembly seven times and served three terms as Leader of the Opposition.