Farewell to a People's Leader: V.S. Achuthanandan- Veteran Communist leader and former Chief Minister of Kerala
Farewell to a People's Leader: V.S. Achuthanandan (1923–2025)
Shri Velikkakathu Sankaran Achuthanandan, fondly known as VS, a veteran Communist leader and former Chief Minister of Kerala, passed away on July 21, 2025, at the age of 101. He cremated with full state honours on July 23, at the Punnapra-Vayalar Martyrs' Memorial in Valiya Chudukad, Alappuzha, at 9:15 p.m. Despite the heavy rains, thousands gathered to bid a tearful farewell to a leader they deeply admired and loved.
Early Life and Political Awakening:
V.S. Achuthanandan was born on October 20, 1923, in Punnapra, Alappuzha (then part of Travancore kingdom), now in Kerala State. VS lost both parents by the age of 11. This forced him to quit his studies after finishing 7th standard in school. Then he worked in his brother’s tailoring shop and later in a coir factory, where he witnessed the harsh realities of working-class life. These experiences sowed the seeds of his political awakening.
In the 1940s, under the influence of Communist leader P. Krishna Pillai, VS began organising coir workers. He actively participated in the historic Punnapra-Vayalar uprising against the Travancore princely state. He was arrested, tortured, and spent over five years in prison and more than four years underground for his political activism.
Rise in the Communist Movement:
VS joined the State Congress in 1938 and became a member of the Communist Party of India (CPI) in 1940. When the CPI split, he aligned with the Communist Party of India (Marxist), becoming a key leader in Kerala.
He was a prominent face in land reform struggles,
beginning with the 1970 Alappuzha Declaration, demanding the implementation of
the Land Reforms Act passed by the EMS government. Over decades, he emerged as
a powerful voice for the poor, landless, and working class.
Leadership and Legacy
VS served as the Leader of the
Opposition in the Kerala Legislative Assembly for 15 years, making him the
longest-serving person in that role. He was a mass leader with unwavering
public support.
At the age of 82, VS became the 11th
Chief Minister of Kerala (2006–2011), making him the oldest person to assume
the office in the state. His term was marked by bold initiatives:
Ø Munnar
and Kochi demolition drives to reclaim illegally occupied land
Ø Anti-piracy
and anti-lottery mafia campaigns
Ø Promotion
of free software, especially in the public education sector
VS also strongly opposed the India–ASEAN Free Trade Agreement, warning it would hurt Kerala’s agriculture sector and threaten livelihoods.
VS was known for his fierce
commitment to justice and was often seen standing with the marginalized:
Ø Supported tribal communities during the Muthanga incident
Ø Led the fight for victims of the Endosulfan tragedy in Kasaragod
His clean image, bold stands, and
simplicity earned him a place in the hearts of the people.
in His personal life VS married K. Vasumathy. The
couple has two childrens, a daughter, V.V. Asha, and a son, V.A. Arun Kumar.
Honours and
Recognition
Pravasi Express
Lifetime Achievement Award (2013):
Awarded by the Indian diaspora in Singapore for his lifelong service to
society.
Velu Thampi Memorial
National Award:
Honoured for upholding democratic values and public interest, named after a
renowned freedom fighter.
Manorama News – News
Maker of the Year (2006):
Given for his impactful role as Chief Minister and strong public connect.
N.C. Sekhar Award:
Recognised for ideological commitment and leadership in Left politics.
First Kerala Award by
Karshaka Thozhilali Union:
Honoured for championing the rights of farm labourers and land reforms.
Writings and Books
VS authored
several books reflecting his political thoughts and struggles:
Ø Kerala Vikasana Sankalpangal
Ø Samarathinu Idavelakalilla
Ø Janapaksham
Ø Ayyankali Muthal Pashchimagatam Vare
Ø Paristhithiyum Vikasanavum
Ø Irakal Vettayadappedumbo
VS Achuthanandan’s life was one of unwavering commitment to the working class, social justice, and political integrity. From the coir factories of Alappuzha to the corridors of power in Kerala, his journey was shaped by struggle, sacrifice, and service.
As Kerala
bid him farewell, it wasn’t just mourning the death of a leader—it was saluting
a life that stood firm for the voiceless and challenged power with courage.
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