India’s political fraternity mourned the loss of VS Achuthanandan, former Kerala Chief Minister and veteran CPI(M) leader, who passed away at 101 on Monday in Thiruvananthapuram’s Pattom SUT Hospital following a cardiac arrest. Achuthanandan, a towering figure in Kerala’s political history, died at 3:20 pm while under treatment in the critical care unit, the hospital confirmed.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his grief on X, stating, “Saddened by the passing of Shri VS Achuthanandan Ji. He devoted many years to public service and Kerala’s progress.” Recalling their interactions when both were chief ministers, Modi extended condolences to Achuthanandan’s family and supporters.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu also paid tribute, noting Achuthanandan’s eight-decade-long political journey marked by unwavering commitment to his ideals. “May his soul rest in peace,” Naidu posted on X. Similarly, YSRCP chief YS Jagan Mohan Reddy called Achuthanandan a “great leader” whose courage and dedication would remain etched in people’s hearts.

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A founding member of CPI(M), Achuthanandan served as Kerala’s chief minister from 2006 to 2011, was elected to the state assembly seven times, and championed workers’ rights, land reforms, and social justice throughout his career.

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