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Veteran Communist leader and former Kerala Chief Minister VS Achuthanandan has passed away at 101. He had been hospitalized for over a month following a cardiac arrest. Achuthanandan was a towering figure in Kerala politics, serving as CM from 2006 to 2011. His death marks the end of an era in the state's political landscape.

Key Points: Kerala's Former CM VS Achuthanandan Dies at 101 in Thiruvananthapuram

  • VS Achuthanandan served as Kerala CM from 2006 to 2011
  • He was a key figure in CPI(M) and LDF victories
  • Battled illness for a month before passing at 101
  • Known for populist stance and anti-corruption campaigns
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Veteran Communist leader and former Kerala CM VS Achuthanandan passes away at 101

Veteran Communist leader and ex-Kerala CM VS Achuthanandan passes away at 101 after prolonged illness, leaving behind a legacy of political activism.

"Achuthanandan's passing marks the end of an era in Kerala politics – Article"

Thiruvananthapuram, July 21

Veteran Communist leader and former Kerala Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan passed away on Monday afternoon at a private hospital in Thiruvananthapuram. He was 101.

Achuthanandan had been battling for his life for over a month after suffering a cardiac arrest at his son’s residence in the state capital on June 23. Since then, he had been on ventilator support in the intensive care unit.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, along with CPI(M) state secretary M.V. Govindan, rushed to the hospital to meet Achuthanandan’s family and speak with the attending doctors. Following their visit, a steady stream of political leaders began arriving at the hospital to pay their respects.

A special medical board comprising experts from the Medical College had been overseeing his treatment in coordination with hospital staff. He was also undergoing dialysis, which was temporarily suspended during the course of his illness.

Achuthanandan’s son-in-law, a doctor, had administered cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) at home before the veteran leader was taken to the hospital last month.

Since stepping down as Chairman of the Administrative Reforms Commission in January 2021, Achuthanandan had been living alternately with his son and daughter in Thiruvananthapuram. His own residence in Alappuzha, which he had built during his long political career, remained closed.

Achuthanandan was a towering figure in Kerala’s political landscape. As Leader of the Opposition from 2001 to 2006, he relentlessly attacked the then A.K. Antony-led UDF government. His populist stance and uncompromising image won him admiration across party lines, especially from apolitical and first-time voters.

He led the CPI(M)-led Left Democratic Front (LDF) to victory in the 2006 Assembly elections and served as Chief Minister from 2006 to 2011. In 2011, he once again spearheaded the LDF campaign and came within touching distance of securing a second term, but the Oommen Chandy-led UDF managed a narrow win, securing 72 seats in the 140-member Assembly.

Achuthanandan's passing marks the end of an era in Kerala politics -- one defined by fierce ideological battles, grassroots activism, and an unwavering commitment to public life.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Shreya B
Whether you agreed with his politics or not, you have to respect his dedication. 101 years of life and he was active in public service till almost the end. That's remarkable! #Respect
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Arjun K
His 2006 campaign against corruption was legendary. I was just 18 then and he was the reason I voted for the first time. The way he connected with common people was something special. RIP Comrade.
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Meera T
While I admired his principles, I wish he had been more progressive on some social issues. His stance on certain women's rights matters was disappointing. But overall, a giant of Kerala politics.
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Vikram M
Remember when he rode his bicycle to the secretariat as CM? That image sums up his character. In today's era of flashy politicians, we need more leaders like VS who practiced what they preached.
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Priya S
My grandfather used to tell stories about VS's early days as a trade union leader. The man fought for workers' rights when it was actually dangerous to do so. True revolutionary spirit! ✊
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Karthik V
His political battles with Karunakaran were the stuff of legends! Kerala politics had such strong personalities back then. Today's leaders pale in comparison. VS sir, you'll be

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