Kerala Mourns: Former Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan Passes Away at 101
Former Kerala Chief Minister and veteran CPI(M) leader V.S. Achuthanandan passes away at 101. The state and nation mourn the loss of a stalwart in Indian politics.
NewsSutra
Thiruvananthapuram, July 21, 2025 —
Veteran Communist leader and former Chief Minister of Kerala, Velikkakathu Sankaran Achuthanandan, popularly known as V.S. Achuthanandan, passed away early Monday morning at the age of 101. With his death, India has lost one of its most iconic and uncompromising political figures — a symbol of integrity, austerity, and people-centric governance.
Achuthanandan, who had been battling age-related ailments, breathed his last at the Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology in Thiruvananthapuram, where he had been undergoing treatment for the past several weeks. The Kerala government has declared a three-day state mourning, and his cremation will take place with full state honors on Tuesday.
A Lifelong Commitment to the Communist Ideology
Born on October 20, 1923, in Punnapra, Alappuzha district, Achuthanandan came from a humble background. Orphaned at a young age, he began his career as a tailor and joined the Communist Party of India (CPI) in the early 1940s during the national freedom struggle. Over the decades, he rose to become a towering figure in the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] following the party split in 1964.
Achuthanandan was one of the founding members of the CPI(M) and played a crucial role in shaping the political landscape of Kerala. As a leader of the working class, he was instrumental in the land reform movement that revolutionized agrarian structures in Kerala during the 1960s and 1970s.
“He was a living legend. His dedication to the rights of the poor and working class is unparalleled,” said Pinarayi Vijayan, current Chief Minister of Kerala and a long-time comrade of Achuthanandan.
Chief Minister and Anti-Corruption Crusader
V.S. Achuthanandan served as the 11th Chief Minister of Kerala from 2006 to 2011, during which he emerged as a no-nonsense leader committed to anti-corruption, environmental protection, and social justice. His tenure is remembered for its strong stance against encroachments in Munnar, a bold move to reclaim illegal land holdings in the ecologically fragile hill station.
Under his leadership, Kerala witnessed significant developments in public healthcare, education, and infrastructure. He was also known for spearheading people's protests against the Smart City project and Coca-Cola’s Plachimada bottling plant, which were accused of environmental violations.
During his tenure, Achuthanandan ordered the prosecution of former minister R. Balakrishna Pillai, making him one of the few politicians in India to act decisively against corruption, even if it meant crossing swords with influential leaders.
For a deep dive into his major political decisions and governance, you can refer to The Hindu’s archive on Achuthanandan's legacy.
A Popular People's Leader
What made Achuthanandan stand apart was not just his political acumen, but his ability to connect with the masses. Despite advancing age and deteriorating health, he remained active in public life, often addressing large rallies and speaking on issues that affected common people.
Even on social media, Achuthanandan’s statements garnered wide attention. In the era of digital campaigning, he was a rare figure of ideological consistency, resisting populist shifts and remaining committed to Marxist principles.
His admirers often called him the “People’s Comrade.” Whether it was advocating for tribal rights, defending LGBTQ+ individuals, or championing public sector enterprises, Achuthanandan never shied away from standing with the marginalized.
Political Career Spanning Over Eight Decades
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Joined Communist Party: Early 1940s
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Jailed During Emergency: 1975–77
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Leader of the Opposition in Kerala Assembly: 2001–2006
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Chief Minister of Kerala: 2006–2011
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Chairman, Administrative Reforms Commission: 2016–2021
Achuthanandan remained a legislator till 2021, after which he retired from active politics. However, he continued to be revered as the ideological conscience of the CPI(M).
To explore his speeches and archives from the Kerala Assembly, visit the Kerala Legislative Assembly's digital records.
National Reactions Pour In
Tributes poured in from across the political spectrum. President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and former Congress President Rahul Gandhi expressed deep condolences.
“V.S. Achuthanandan’s life was one of courage, honesty, and dedication to people’s causes. He will be remembered as one of the last titans of India's ideological politics,” said PM Modi.
Several former and current CPI(M) leaders including Sitaram Yechury and Brinda Karat will be attending the last rites, along with regional leaders and civil society members.
Achuthanandan’s Enduring Legacy
At a time when political careers are often shaped by opportunism, V.S. Achuthanandan was a rare constant in the shifting sands of Indian politics. His vision of a secular, socialist Kerala remains a cornerstone of the state's unique development model.
He leaves behind not just a political void, but an ideological vacuum in a state where leftist politics still holds significant ground.
“We have lost a titan. His memory will continue to inspire generations of Keralites,” stated historian Dr. M.G.S. Narayanan.
His personal life was as simple as his political journey. Known for living in modest government quarters, wearing plain khadi, and maintaining a minimal lifestyle, Achuthanandan embodied Gandhian simplicity within a Marxist framework.
For readers interested in the broader historical context of the Left movement in Kerala, Scroll.in has compiled a timeline of CPI(M)’s evolution.
Final Journey and Public Homage
The mortal remains of V.S. Achuthanandan will lie in state at the Kerala Secretariat, where thousands are expected to pay their last respects. The cremation will be held at the Shanthikavadam Crematorium in Thiruvananthapuram.
Kerala schools, colleges, and government offices will remain shut on Tuesday as a mark of respect.
Conclusion
The passing of V.S. Achuthanandan marks the end of an era in Indian politics. In a time when public trust in political leadership is fragile, his life reminds us of what leadership grounded in ethics, ideology, and empathy can look like.
He was a man of few words but many actions, and his legacy will continue to shape Kerala’s political conscience for years to come.
