The Last of the Founding Marxists
Achuthanandan was the final surviving member among the 32 leaders who broke away from the Communist Party of India (CPI) in 1964 to form the Communist Party of India (Marxist) or CPI(M).
His journey began in his teenage years. He joined the Communist movement even before turning 18. Over the next eight decades, he rose through the ranks, becoming a legendary name in Kerala’s political history.
From Coir Worker to Chief Minister
Born in 1923 in Punnapra, Alappuzha, Achuthanandan lost his parents early. He began life as a coir factory worker and was drawn into the Communist movement through the influence of trade unions and leaders like VK Karunakaran.
In 1946, he took part in the Punnapra-Vayalar uprising against the Dewan of Travancore. He was so severely beaten during the protests that he was presumed dead. But he survived — and kept fighting.
He entered the Kerala Assembly at age 44. He became Chief Minister at 82 in 2006. In between, he served thrice as Leader of Opposition, and for two decades as the MLA of Mararikulam.
A Voice for the Voiceless
Achuthanandan was known for standing up for the oppressed. As an opposition leader, he fought against forest encroachments, illegal lotteries, and corporate exploitation. He opposed police violence against Adivasis in Muthanga and fought the Coca-Cola plant in Plachimada.
As Chief Minister, he spearheaded several key infrastructure projects. The Vallarpadam terminal, Technopark in Kollam, and proposals for Kannur Airport and Kochi Metro all took shape under his watch.
The Uncompromising Rebel
He often challenged the CPI(M) leadership from within. His rivalry with Pinarayi Vijayan, the current Chief Minister, caused visible factionalism in the party. Their conflict reached a peak during the SNC-Lavalin corruption case involving Vijayan.
In 2012, Achuthanandan visited the house of KK Rema, the widow of TP Chandrasekharan — a rebel CPI(M) leader who was murdered. This act, seen as defiance against the party, won him mass admiration.
He was known for his singsong speeches, dry wit, and unpredictable moves that made him a true crowd-puller. His unique style forced the party to include him in the 2011 and 2016 elections after initially denying him tickets.
End of a Political Saga
After the 2016 elections, when Vijayan became CM, Achuthanandan was made Chairman of the Administrative Reforms Commission. He worked in this symbolic role for two years before retiring due to health issues.
His passing is not just the death of a leader. It’s the end of a political era that spanned from underground movements to democratic power. He was not just a politician, but a symbol of resistance, honesty, and grassroots connection.
Kerala Mourns a Legend
Tributes have poured in from all corners of the country. Politicians across parties have remembered him as a fearless voice, a principled leader, and a man who refused to compromise.
VS Achuthanandan leaves behind his wife, K Vasumathi, and a legacy of unwavering commitment to the people. Kerala has lost more than a leader — it has lost a conscience.
