End Of Era ! Kerala Bids Farewell to VS Achuthanandan, Voice of the Downtrodden and Former CM Passes at 101

Thiruvananthapuram, July 21, 2025 – Kerala awoke in absolute grief this morning with the demise of its beloved leader and ex-Chief Minister, V.S. Achuthanandan, at the ripe age of 101. The veteran Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader, a giant in the state's politics, breathed his last at a private hospital in Thiruvananthapuram. He was receiving medical care as he had a cardiac arrest last month.

A Life Dedicated to the Cause

Achuthanandan's death brings to a close the final chapter of an extraordinary episode in Kerala's political history. Born in 1923, his life was intricately interwoven into the communist movement from its inception. He was the sole surviving member among the 32 pioneer leaders who broke away from the Communist Party of India (CPI) in 1964 to form the CPI(M), establishing his position as a founding father. Popularly known as "Comrade VS" and the "Voice of the Downtrodden," Achuthanandan dedicated nearly eight decades to public life and the cause of the workers. His unwavering commitment to communist ideals, his fiery oratory, and his uncompromising action against corruption and injustice resonated with a powerful people's voice, gaining him universal acclaim on both sides of the political divide.

A Life of Unshakeable Political Devotion

VS Achuthanandan was Chief Minister of Kerala from 2006-2011, taking office at 82 years of age and being one of the seniormost chief ministers of India. Even at 82, he was a force to be reckoned with, challenging the old political order and battling tooth and nail for environmentalism, land reform, and the rights of oppressed classes. He also served for three terms as Leader of the Opposition, holding governments accountable on all counts. His political career was one of militant struggles and mass movements, and active participation in the historic Punnapra-Vayalar rebellion of 1946. Though he served in crucial party roles such as State Secretary of the CPI(M), he was always regarded as one who was directly linked to the people, and frequently battled causes that, though unpopular in his party, were essential to the well-being of the state.

 Legacy of a People's Leader 

The news of his demise has elicited an avalanche of nostalgic recollections from political leaders, cultural figures, and common people alike. They mourn the demise of a legend whose life was marked by adversity, resilience, and an uncompromising belief in social justice. His long-lasting legacy as a champion of the downtrodden and a fearless leader will certainly inspire generations to come, and "Comrade VS" will become an inseparable part of Kerala's social and political heritage.