How Did Rahul and Priyanka React to the Death of Veteran Congress Leader P.P. Thankachen?

Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 11 (NationPress) The Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, along with his sister, Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, expressed their condolences on Thursday night regarding the demise of esteemed Congress leader and four-time legislator P.P. Thankachen, who passed away at a private healthcare facility near Kochi.

Rahul Gandhi shared on social media: “I am deeply saddened by the loss of former Kerala Congress President Shri P.P. Thankachen. A devoted leader, he worked earnestly for the welfare of Kerala and bolstered the Congress family with his commitment and humility. My thoughts are with his family in this sorrowful time.”

Priyanka Gandhi also remarked: “I extend my heartfelt condolences on the passing of senior Congress leader and former Kerala Agriculture Minister Shri P.P. Thankachen, a dedicated leader who passionately served the people of Kerala. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this challenging time.”

At the age of 84, Thankachen had been undergoing treatment for age-related health issues over the past few weeks. A lawyer by profession, he entered politics early and steadily ascended through the ranks of the Congress party.

At the young age of 26, he assumed the role of chairman of his municipality, marking the commencement of a significant political career.

Throughout the years, he occupied various essential positions in the state, 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 a remarkable 14 years.

He was known as one of the party’s most effective mediators during the intense factional struggles between the factions of K. Karunakaran and A.K. Antony, while consistently remaining loyal to Karunakaran.

Messages of condolence flowed in from various political circles.

Kerala Governor Rajendra V. Arlekar expressed his sympathies to Thankachen’s grieving family.

In a post on X, he acknowledged that Thankachen dedicated his life to public service as a Speaker, Minister, and KPCC President, and will be remembered with appreciation.

Former Chief Minister A.K. Antony conveyed his deep sorrow, reminiscing about a friendship that lasted six decades.

“Our relationship began in the Youth Congress. More than just political allies, we were close friends. Even amidst factional disagreements, he remained calm and gentle. I have lost yet another long-time companion,” Antony expressed.

AICC General Secretary K.C. Venugopal described Thankachen’s passing as “a great loss for the party,” emphasizing his expertise in resolving internal conflicts and his skill in maintaining solidarity among UDF allies.

“Regardless of the position he held, he consistently prioritized the party’s interests over his own,” Venugopal stated. State Congress President Sunny Joseph remembered him as a mentor.

“When he was KPCC president, I served as the Kannur district president. He chose politics over a judicial career despite clearing the Munsiff exam. We have lost a guiding figure,” Joseph reflected.

Thankachen’s wife had passed away prior to him.

He is survived by three children. The final rites will take place on Saturday in his hometown, Perumbavoor.