V.S. Achuthanandan, Ex-Kerala CM and Communist Leader, Passes Away

Fast Summary

• Former Kerala Chief Minister V.S.Achuthanandan passed away at a private hospital in Thiruvananthapuram on July 21, 2025, at the age of 101.
• He served as Chief Minister from 2006 to 2011 and withdrew from public life after suffering a stroke in 2019.
• An iconic communist leader, he championed causes like environmental protection, gender equality, wetland conservation, and rights for nurses and transgender individuals.
• Born into a poor agricultural family in Alappuzha in 1923, he joined the freedom movement at age 16 under communist leader P. Krishna PillaiS mentorship.
• Key involvement included the Punnapra-Vayalar uprising (1946) against colonial rule; endured imprisonment and torture during activism.
• Co-founded the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] post its split from CPI in 1964; faced political challenges like expulsion from CPI(M)’s Polit Bureau (2009) but remained active afterward.
• Known for his rustic oratory with biting sarcasm, he attracted mass crowds and became synonymous with Left politics during significant ideological eras.
• Survived by wife K. Vasumathy, two children-V.V.Asha and V.A. Arun kumar-and grandchildren.

Indian Opinion Analysis

V.S. Achuthanandan’s passing marks the end of an era for India’s communist movement and Kerala’s political history. A figure emblematic of grassroots activism combined with resolute ideology, Mr.Achuthanandan bridged generational divides-from anti-colonial militancy to modern governance amidst socioeconomic transformations like liberalization.

His contributions extended beyond traditional party roles; by addressing systemic issues such as environmental degradation or gender inequities through legislation or advocacy while remaining grounded among marginalized populations-his legacy reflects broader considerations about balancing ideology with inclusive governance.For Kerala specifically-the state’s development trajectory has prominently intersected with mr. Achuthanandan’s tenure emphasizing equity-oriented policies while negotiating internal political dynamics within CPI(M). As his influence resonated nationally despite regional specificity-it underscores transitions now facing India’s Left parties amidst shifting sociopolitical landscapes after stalwarts’ departures.

Read more: The Hindu