CPI Mourns the Loss of Comrade VS Achuthanandan

The National Secretariat of the Communist Party of India issued today (July 21, 2025) the following statement:

The Communist Party of India expresses its deep condolences on the passing of veteran communist leader and former Chief Minister of Kerala, Comrade V. S. Achuthanandan. With his demise at the age of 101, an era in India’s Left and democratic movement comes to a close.

Comrade Achuthanandan’s political journey, spanning more than eight decades, stands as a testament to unwavering commitment to the ideals of socialism, secularism, and people’s rights. From joining the Communist Party in 1940, rising from the struggles of agricultural workers and coir labourers in Alappuzha, surviving harsh repression, going underground, and facing imprisonment during the Punnapra-Vayalar revolt—he went on to play key roles in building the communist movement in Kerala. One of the founding members of the CPI(M), he later served as CPI(M) Kerala State Secretary, CPI(M) Polit Bureau member, Leader of the Opposition in the Kerala Assembly, and as Chief Minister of Kerala from 2006 to 2011. Throughout, he remained known for his incorruptibility, dedication, and fierce opposition to communalism and corruption. His tenure as the Chief Minister of the LDF Government was marked by strong stands on land rights, environmental issues, and the rights of the marginalised.

Comrade VS was widely respected across party lines and by the people of Kerala. The CPI pays homage to Comrade V. S. Achuthanandan’s eventful life and legacy. His principled life, simplicity, and dedication to the people will remain an inspiration to the coming generations. The CPI extends its deep condolences to his family, friends, admirers and to the CPI(M).

Sd/-

(Roykutty)

Office Secretary