Veteran Communist Leader V S Achuthanandan Passes Away at 101
Thiruvananthapuram, July 21, 2025 – V. S. Achuthanandan, the respected former Chief Minister of Kerala and senior leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), passed away today at the age of 101. He died at 3:20 PM at SUT Hospital in Thiruvananthapuram after being under intensive care for nearly a month following a cardiac arrest on June 23 at his son’s residence.
Timeline of Events
- June 23, 2025 – Achuthanandan suffered a cardiac arrest and was admitted to SUT Hospital. He was placed on ventilator support in the Intensive Care Unit.
- June 25, 2025 – A medical bulletin confirmed that his condition remained critical and unchanged. A team of doctors continued to monitor his health.
- July 10, 2025 – His son, Arun Kumar, stated that the hospital stay had been extremely difficult, though there were moments of hope each day.
- July 21, 2025 – Achuthanandan passed away at 3:20 PM in Thiruvananthapuram. His body will be taken to Alappuzha on July 22 for public homage and final rites.
Public and Political Reactions
The Kerala government has declared July 22 as a public holiday. Three days of state mourning have been announced, with the national and state flags to be flown at half-mast.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed deep sorrow and visited the hospital during Achuthanandan’s final days. CPI(M) state secretary M. V. Govindan and other senior leaders also paid their respects.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his condolences, stating that Achuthanandan’s contribution to Indian politics and public life was monumental. Political leaders across parties acknowledged his legacy and paid tribute to his unwavering service to the people.
A Life of Unwavering Commitment and Courage
Born on October 20, 1923, in Punnapra, Alappuzha district, Achuthanandan had a modest upbringing. Orphaned at a young age, he worked as a tailor and was forced to drop out of school in Class VII. He joined the Communist Party of India in 1940 and was instrumental in building the trade union movement in Kerala.
When the Communist Party split in 1964, he became a founding member of the CPI(M). Over the years, he became a central figure in Kerala’s leftist politics and one of the most respected political voices in the state.
He was jailed for more than five years and spent another four years underground during political struggles. He quickly rose through the party ranks, becoming CPI(M) State Secretary, Politburo Member, and later the most prominent face of the party in Kerala.
Legislative and Administrative Contributions
V. S. Achuthanandan was elected to the Kerala Legislative Assembly seven times and served as Leader of the Opposition three times.
He served as the Chief Minister of Kerala from 2006 to 2011. During his tenure, he launched a powerful campaign against land encroachments in Munnar, took action against the lottery mafia, and strongly promoted public sector welfare.
He advocated for the use of free software in education, helped initiate the Smart City project in Kochi, and launched Technocity in Thiruvananthapuram to boost the IT sector. He also worked on reviving ailing public sector units and remained a strong voice for environmental conservation.
He held the post of Chairman of the Kerala Administrative Reforms Commission from 2016 to 2021 and continued to contribute ideas on governance and transparency.
Controversies and Political Stature
Despite his immense popularity, Achuthanandan often found himself at odds with the CPI(M) leadership due to his open criticism of corruption and internal party issues. In 2009, he was removed from the Politburo, though public support remained firmly with him.
His plain-speaking manner, honesty, and austere lifestyle won him admiration from across the political spectrum. Known for his sharp wit and fearless voice, he was seen as a rare politician who remained untainted by power.
End of an Era
With the passing of V. S. Achuthanandan, Kerala has lost a true people’s leader. He stood for justice, equality, and the rights of the marginalized. A leader of the masses, he chose to walk with the people throughout his long political life.
He lived simply, remained grounded, and never compromised on his principles. His contributions to Kerala’s political, social, and economic landscape are immense, and his legacy will continue to guide future generations.
Key Points at a Glance
- Age at death: 101
- Cause: Cardiac arrest and prolonged hospitalization
- Important roles: Chief Minister, Leader of Opposition, CPI(M) Politburo Member, Reform Commission Chairman
- Major contributions: Land reform, anti-corruption drives, public sector revival, environmental activism
- Funeral: To be held in Alappuzha on July 22 with full state honors