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Veteran Politician K.P. Unnikrishnan, Who Evacuated Indians from Kuwait, Dies

Former Union Minister K.P. Unnikrishnan passed away at the age of 89 in Kozhikode. A six-term MP from Vatakara, he served as a Cabinet Minister handling key portfolios under Prime Minister V. P. Singh. He is widely remembered for his courageous role in evacuating over 1.5 lakh Indians from Kuwait during the 1990 Gulf War, which included a secret meeting with Saddam Hussein. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan led tributes, praising him as a powerful voice for India's secular democratic tradition.

Key Points: Former Union Minister K.P. Unnikrishnan Passes Away at 89

  • Served as Union Minister in VP Singh cabinet
  • Evacuated 1.5 lakh Indians from Kuwait during Gulf War
  • Known for exposing Bofors scandal
  • Elected MP from Vatakara six times
  • Began career as a journalist
2 min read

Former Union Minister K.P. Unnikrishnan passes away in Kozhikode

Former Union Minister K.P. Unnikrishnan, known for evacuating Indians during the Gulf War and exposing the Bofors scandal, dies at 89 in Kozhikode.

"Unnikrishnan was a staunch advocate of secular politics and left a strong mark in the field of journalism - Pinarayi Vijayan"

Thiruvananthapuram Marc, h 3

Former Union Minister K.P. Unnikrishnan passed away at the age of 89 at a private hospital in Kozhikode on Monday. He was a prominent political figure who served as the Union Minister for Transport and for Information and Communications in the V. P. Singh cabinet.

Chief Minister of Kerala, Pinarayi Vijayan, has expressed deep condolences on the demise of Former Union Minister K.P. Unnikrishnan. He said, "Unnikrishnan was a staunch advocate of secular politics and left a strong mark in the field of journalism".

He added that as a parliamentarian, Unnikrishnan was known for his strong interventions and played a courageous role both inside and outside Parliament in exposing scandals such as the Bofors case. He further described Unnikrishnan's leadership as unforgettable during the 1990 Gulf War.

"Unnikrishnan played a crucial role in bringing back more than 1.5 lakh Malayalis stranded in Kuwait. He even met Saddam Hussein at a secret centre in Baghdad during the war to expedite the evacuation process. The nation looked up to his firm and principled positions during critical moments. Respectful tributes to a powerful voice of India's democratic and secular tradition," Vijayan further added.

Unnikrishnan was elected to the Lok Sabha from the Vatakara constituency for six consecutive terms between 1971 and 1991. An accomplished diplomat and noted orator, he represented India at several international forums, including the United Nations.

He served as the Cabinet Minister in the VP Singh government, handling portfolios including Telecommunications, Shipping, and Surface Transport. He strongly opposed the rise of aggressive Hindutva politics led by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and worked to strengthen secular politics in the country. In the 1991 elections, he faced a common candidate backed by the Congress-Muslim League coalition, yet Unnikrishnan secured victory in the Vatakara constituency as the Left Democratic Front (LDF) candidate.

Before entering active politics, Unnikrishnan worked as a journalist.

He began his political journey through socialist movements. After serving as President of the National Union of Students of India and as Secretary of the Bombay Samajwadi Yuvak Sabha, he joined the Congress in 1960. In Delhi, he worked closely with V. K. Krishna Menon and later became a close associate of Indira Gandhi. Following differences with Indira Gandhi, he joined Congress (U) and later Congress (S), where he served as All India General Secretary. He rejoined the Congress party in 1995.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
Reading about his role in the Bofors case exposure is fascinating. It's a reminder of a time when parliamentarians from different parties could unite on matters of national integrity. His principled stands are a lesson for current politics.
P
Priyanka N
Six consecutive terms from Vatakara! That shows the immense trust people had in him. From journalism to diplomacy to being a Union Minister – what a versatile and impactful life. Deepest condolences to his family and followers.
A
Aman W
While I respect his service, I sometimes wonder if the brand of secular politics he championed has evolved into something more about vote banks than genuine equality. That said, his personal bravery and dedication to public service are unquestionable. A great loss.
K
Karthik V
His journey from student politics to the Union Cabinet is inspiring for the youth. Starting with the student union and reaching such heights shows the strength of our democratic systems. May his legacy motivate more young people to enter public life with integrity.
M
Meera T
As a Keralite, I remember the stories from 1990. The anxiety in every household with someone in the Gulf was palpable. Leaders like Unnikrishnan sir were our hope. He didn't just talk, he acted and brought people home. Eternal gratitude. Rest in peace.

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