Thiruvananthapuram: Leaders from across the political spectrum paid rich tribute to former Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, who passed away in Bengaluru early on Tuesday.
Senior Congress leaders Ramesh Chennithala, A K Antony, Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan, Raj Mohan Unnithan, opposition leader V D Satheesan, CPM state secretary M V Govindan and BJP state president expressed condolences on the demise of the leader.
“Congress had its golden era under Oommen Chandy's leadership. His political views always motivated leaders like me. We had planned to visit him in Bengaluru,” said Chennithala.
Holding back tears, senior A K Antony expressed his condolences. He stated that nobody can replace Oommen Chandy.
“Oommen Chandy's demise is a huge loss to Kerala, Congress and UDF. Personally, his demise is a great loss to me and my family. Had he not insisted, I would not have married or have a family. He was my close friend with whom I shared everything. He always focused on helping people. He never disappointed who visit him seeking his help,” said an emotional Antony.
"The tale of the king who triumphed over the world with the power of 'love' finds its poignant end.Today, I am deeply saddened by the loss of a legend, @Oommen_Chandy. He touched the lives of countless individuals, and his legacy will forever resonate within our souls. RIP!, tweeted KPCC president K Sudhakaran.
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor also recollected his memories with Oommen Chandy while paying condolences.
“Sadly, it was not to be. The news of @Oommen_Chandy’s passing leaves millions bereft. My heart goes out to his family at this inexpressibly sad time. May his soul rest in peace. Om Shanti,” tweeted Tharoor.
Opposition leader VD Satheesan took to his Facebook page and mourned the demise of the leader.
“Oommen Chandy was a name of relief for Keralites across the world. He was solace and hope. He visited people in all places. The native of Puthupally stood strong and overcame all political challenges in his life. He neither treated people as steps to power nor wished to be an arbitrator. Literally, he was a favourite leader of the people. There is no one like Oommen Chandy. The public hero has bid goodbye. Adieu to my dear Oommen Chandy sir,” wrote Satheesan.
“Oommen Chandy had kept friendship with everyone beyond politics. He was a politician who was always with the people. His demise is a big loss to Kerala,” CPM state secretary M V Govindan told Manorama News.
BJP state president K Surendran remembered Oommen Chandy's remarkable contributions to Kerala's development.
Muslim League leader P K Kunhalikutty hailed Oommen Chandy as the most popular leader in Kerala.
"I have lost an intimate friend. I'm on the way to Bengaluru. Most of the senior leaders are in Bengaluru. His mortal remains will be taken to Kerala soon," he added.
Youth Congress national president Srinivas BC said Chandy was a visionary, a statesman and a humble servant of the people. "His legacy will live on in the hearts of millions. My heartfelt condolences to his family and followers," he tweeted.
Congress Karnataka general secretary Kavitha Reddy said the Congress would 'deeply miss the Champion of Simplicity, Development, Democracy, Secularism', in a tweet.
Working president of Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee Rakesh Reddy P in his condolence message said Chandy 'inspired generations of young leaders with his dedication and charisma'.
The death of the former Kerala chief minister was announced by his son, Chandy Oommen, in a Facebook post. "Appa has passed away," Oommen wrote on his Facebook page, without elaborating.
Chandy, who had not been keeping well for quite some time, had been staying in Bengaluru for treatment at a health facility.
