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Thousands of people from various parts of Kerala paid their last respects to former Kerala Chief Minister and veteran Communist leader VS Achuthanandan at the Darbar Hall in Thiruvananthapuram, where his mortal remains were kept for public view on Tuesday, July 22.
The veteran leader passed away in Thiruvananthapuram on July 21, after suffering a cardiac arrest. He was 101. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, state ministers, Members of Parliament, and many politicians were present at Darbar Hall.
Tributes poured in for one of the most outspoken CMs of Kerala and everyone’s favourite comrade who fought for people’s issues. VS was one of the 32 men who walked away from the parent Communist Party and formed the CPI(M).
“VS Achuthanandan is a legend not only in this state. He has done everything possible not only in this state but for this country. Irrespective of his ideology, he was loved and respected by everybody. That was his greatness, and such persons are very rare nowadays,” Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar said after paying his respects at Darbar Hall.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recalled his interaction with VS Achuthanandan and expressed his condolences to the family. “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. 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,” he said.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu extended his deepest condolences saying, “His long political journey, spanning over eight decades, reflects a steadfast commitment to his ideals and public service. May his soul rest in peace.”
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin said VS Achuthanandan leaves behind a revolutionary legacy deeply etched in Kerala’s political conscience. “A beloved mass leader, lifelong communist, and former Chief Minister, he embodied principled politics and the spirit of public service. My heartfelt condolences to his family, the CPI(M) cadre, and the people of Kerala who mourn the loss of a true colossus,” he stated.
After the public homage in Darbar Hall, the body will be taken to his native place in Alappuzha in the evening. His funeral is scheduled for July 23 at the Punnapra-Vayalar Memorial in Valiya Chudukad.
