What’s Next for Kerala and CPI-M After Achuthanandan's Passing?

Thiruvananthapuram, July 24 (NationPress) After a profound three-day period of mourning for the iconic Communist leader and former Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan, Kerala has begun to emerge from its grief as of Thursday.

For the past 72 hours, nearly every television channel in the state dedicated its coverage exclusively to the events surrounding the leader's passing and his final journey. This extensive reporting provided minute-by-minute updates, illustrating the deep connection he had with the people of Kerala.

The solemn event concluded late Wednesday night around 11:30 p.m. when a fiery pyre consumed the remains of the 101-year-old leader, as thousands gathered to pay their heartfelt respects.

Achuthanandan breathed his last at a private hospital on Monday at 3:20 p.m.

Following this moment, Kerala was captivated by the outpouring of tributes, including the emotional 130 km procession from the state capital to Alappuzha, his hometown. The procession spanned over 19 hours, with crowds braving the rain to catch a final glimpse of their beloved 'VS'.

While the loss is deeply personal for the citizens of Kerala, the political ramifications for the CPI(M) may be less significant. Achuthanandan had stepped back from public life in January 2020 and had been residing with his children in Thiruvananthapuram since then.

His remarkable political resurgence began, ironically, with a defeat in 1996 when he was anticipated to become Chief Minister but lost the election — a setback that many believed would end his career.

“That loss was a pivotal moment,” noted a political analyst, wishing to remain anonymous, adding, “Instead of fading into obscurity, he made a remarkable comeback in 2001, winning the election and becoming the Leader of the Opposition. His political instincts and fierce independence endeared him to the public, leading to a significant outcry in 2006 that compelled the CPI(M) to allow him to run.”

Achuthanandan subsequently led the Left to a significant victory in the 2006 Assembly elections and served as Chief Minister until 2011. The years from 2006 to 2020, when he officially retired, saw his popularity soar to unparalleled levels.

“Those were the years that defined his legacy—he transcended the party. What Kerala witnessed over the past three days is a testament to that enduring connection,” the analyst remarked. “However, politically, the CPI(M) has since reorganized under Pinarayi Vijayan’s guidance. Thus, while the emotional void is substantial, the party is unlikely to experience any electoral repercussions.”