Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha and former Wayanad MP, along with current MP Priyanka Gandhi, expressed their condolences on the passing of veteran Congress leader P.P. Thankachen, who died at a private hospital near Kochi.

In a heartfelt message on social media, Rahul shared, “I am deeply saddened by the loss of former Kerala Congress President Shri P P Thankachan. A dedicated leader, he tirelessly worked for the people of Kerala, strengthening the Congress family with his commitment and humility. My thoughts are with his loved ones during this difficult time.”

Similarly, Priyanka conveyed her condolences, stating, “My heartfelt sympathies go out on the passing of senior Congress leader and former Kerala Agriculture Minister Shri P.P. Thankachan, a dedicated leader who served the people of Kerala with passion and commitment. My thoughts and prayers are with his family in this time of sorrow.”

At the age of 84, Thankachen had been receiving treatment for age-related conditions for several weeks. A lawyer by profession, he entered public life early and steadily climbed the ranks within the Congress party.

By the age of 26, he became the chairman of his municipality, marking the beginning of an extensive political career.

Throughout his decades-long service, he held several significant positions, including Speaker of the Kerala Legislative Assembly, Agriculture Minister in the A.K. Antony cabinet, KPCC President, and convenor of the Congress-led UDF for 14 years.

Thankachen was recognized as one of the party’s most effective problem-solvers during the intense factional conflicts between the supporters of K. Karunakaran and A.K. Antony, while remaining loyal to Karunakaran.

Condolences have flooded in from across the political spectrum.

Kerala Governor Rajendra V. Arlekar offered condolences to Thankachen’s grieving family, stating that Thankachen dedicated his life to public service in roles such as Speaker, Minister, and KPCC President, and will be remembered with appreciation.

Former Chief Minister A.K. Antony expressed deep sorrow, reminiscing about a friendship that lasted six decades. He stated, “Our relationship began in the Youth Congress. More than just political colleagues, we were close friends. Even amidst factional disputes, he remained calm and soft-spoken. I have lost another long-time associate.”

AICC General Secretary K.C. Venugopal described Thankachen’s passing as “a tremendous loss for the party,” highlighting his adeptness at managing internal conflicts and his capacity to unite UDF allies.

“No matter the position he held, he consistently prioritized the party's interests above his own,” Venugopal remarked. State Congress President Sunny Joseph recalled him as a mentor.

“When he was KPCC president, I was the Kannur district president. He chose politics over a legal career despite clearing the Munsiff exam. We have lost a guide,” Joseph commented.

Thankachen is survived by three children, with his wife having predeceased him. The final rites will take place on Saturday in his hometown, Perumbavoor.