Former Kerala CM V.S. Achuthanandan Passes Away At 101
Thiruvananthapuram/Hyderabad, July 21 (Maxim News): Kerala has lost one of its tallest political figures, as Velikkakattu Sankaran Achuthanandan, veteran Communist leader and former Chief Minister of Kerala, passed away on Monday, July 21, 2025, at the age of 101.
Achuthanandan breathed his last while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Thiruvananthapuram, where he had been admitted due to age-related health complications. His passing marks the end of an era in Kerala’s political landscape, particularly for the Left movement.
Achuthanandan served as the Chief Minister from 2006 to 2011 and was widely respected for his integrity, fiery speeches, and deep-rooted connection with the masses. A founding member of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), he played a pivotal role in shaping the Left’s ideological and grassroots movements in Kerala.
Born in 1923, Achuthanandan joined the Communist Party in 1940 and later became instrumental in the formation of the CPI(M) in 1964. He served as the Leader of the Opposition for 15 years, the longest in the Kerala Assembly’s history, and was appointed to the party’s Politburo in 1985, though he was removed in 2009 due to internal differences.
Throughout his political life, Achuthanandan was known for his activism and unwavering commitment to public causes. He led several landmark movements, including:
- Punnapra-Vayalar uprising
- Munnar land reclamation
- Fight against the lottery mafia
- Crackdown on film piracy
- Introduction of free software in Kerala’s education system
His activism came at a personal cost—he spent five years in jail and four and a half years in hiding during various struggles.
Achuthanandan retired from active politics in 2019 due to declining health but remained a symbol of political integrity and mass leadership.
As news of his demise spread, tributes began pouring in from across the political spectrum. Leaders praised his courage, dedication, and people-first approach, describing him as a towering figure whose legacy will inspire generations.
With his passing, Kerala bids farewell to a revolutionary leader who remained deeply committed to social justice and people’s welfare till his final days.
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