Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan paid tribute to his late communist leader and former Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan, who he described as “a blazing memory” whose lessons will not fade, and who guided generations.
The remembrance was about Achuthanandan’s long history of service in Kerala and for his belief in social justice and workers’ rights and democratic values.
A message from Pinarayi Vijayan, to the gathering, recalled Achuthanandan’s remarkable political journey, saying that his life was closely linked to people’s struggle. From his days in the communist movement to Kerala Chief Minister from 2006 to 2011, Achuthanandan was a leader who took stands against corruption and was champion of the common man’s good.
V.S. Achuthanandan was one of the founding members of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) after the split of the party in 1964. Over the years he was one of the most recognizable faces of the Left movement in Kerala. His political career was marked by his outspoken nature, grassroots connect and relentless campaigns for environmental protection, land rights and transparency in governance.
Pinarayi Vijayan said that Achuthanandan’s memories are still alive and well in people’s hearts because he has lived his life in service to the public. He said the veteran leader’s commitment to safeguarding democratic values and defending the rights of marginalized groups still informs the Left movement and society at large.
Achuthanandan launched several measures to develop governance and the public welfare during his time as Chief Minister. He focused on infrastructure development, education, healthcare and social security programs. He also gained widespread appreciation for his stance against illegal land encroachments and corruption by his followers and they were thankful to him.
Even after the exit from active politics, Achuthanandan was still a figure in Kerala politics. His speeches, interventions and commitment to equality and justice were still an attraction to party workers and all.
All political leaders and party workers in Kerala paid floral tributes and recalled his contribution to the state. Many commemorative events were organised to remember him and the communist movement in India.
Achuthanandan's legacy transcends electoral politics. He is remembered as a leader who never stopped talking about farmers, laborers, and vulnerable communities. Clean governance and accountability were also the bedrock of Kerala's administrative and political culture.
Kerala’s political leaders are still living today, but Pinarayi Vijayan’s tribute to them is no doubt a tribute that it is still the ideals of V.S. Achuthanandan that are driving the state’s progressive politics.
And so his life remains a symbol of dedication to the people and his dedication to public service will always be there as long as he is alive for the next generations.
