Founding member of the CPI(M) and former Kerala chief minister Velikkakathu Sankaran Achuthanandan died at a hospital in Thiruvananthapuram on Monday. Popularly known as Comrade VS or just VS, Achuthanandan was 101 years old.
Political leaders across party lines reacted to his death and shared their condolences.
Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, in a post from the official X handle, wrote, “Heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family of Shri VS Achuthanandan, veteran leader and former Chief Minister of Kerala. A true grassroot level leader who remained steadfast in his ideals. His contributions to society and the State’s politics will always be remembered.”
Heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family of Shri V.S. Achuthanandan, veteran leader and former Chief Minister of Kerala. A true grassroot level leader who remained steadfast in his ideals. His contributions to society and the State’s politics will always be remembered. pic.twitter.com/kLkxojK4kJ
— Kerala Governor (@KeralaGovernor) July 21, 2025
Senior Congress leader and Thiruvananthapuram MP Shahi Tharoor also took to X and wrote, “Mourning the passing of former Chief Minister VS Achuthanandan…A giant of Kerala’s Communist movement, “VS” rose from humble origins to become a hugely popular mass leader and Chief Minister 2006-11, where he earned the respect of all. He will be mourned by millions of his devoted followers. Om Shanti!”
Tharoor also shared a 2008 photograph of Achuthanandan releasing the Congress MP’s book ‘The Elephant, the Tiger & the Cellphone’ in Kerala.
Mourning the passing of former Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan (here, releasing my book “The Elephant, the Tiger & the Cellphone” in Kerala, 2008).
A giant of Kerala’s Communist movement, “VS” rose from humble origins to become a hugely popular mass leader and Chief Minister… pic.twitter.com/upehl7vFeQ
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) July 21, 2025
K Sunderan, the former state president of Kerala BJP said Achuthanandan’s death “marks the end of an era in Kerala politics”. He added, “His commitment to public life and fearless stance on many issues earned him respect across party lines.”
Kavitha Kalvakuntla, BRS MLC of Kamareddy and Nizamabad, Telangana said, “His (Achuthanandan’s) unwavering commitment to public service will be remembered forever.” She added, “Saddened by the demise of former Kerala Chief Minister and veteran Communist leader VS Achuthanandan garu… My heartfelt condolences to his family and followers.”
