The passing away of Oommen Chandy, Former Chief Minister of Kerala, marks the loss of a beloved leader in Kerala's political arena. Few leaders in Kerala politics were as widely accepted as him. Oommen Chandy held various significant positions, such as Chief Minister, Minister of Labour, Home Affairs and Finance, and Leader of the Opposition in the administrative field. Furthermore, he rose to the rank of AICC General Secretary in the organizational field. Regardless of political differences, he was approachable by anyone at any time and never turned away those seeking assistance. His approach was not merely for political gain but driven by a genuine sympathy for the common man. Serving as the representative of Puthupallyy Assembly Constituency in the Legislative Assembly for over five decades from 1970 to 2023 is a testament to his enduring popularity. He was considered a favorite among the newcomers, and Puthupallikars used to arrange marriage ceremonies, seeking Kunjuni's counsel and accommodating his convenience.
Oommen Chandy was rarely seen without a large crowd around him. Whether it was during his tenure as Chief Minister at Cliff House in the morning or in his office in Sarnnha, or when the Legislative Assembly convened in his office and Puthupally House in Jagati, people always flocked to him. In an interview with the media, Oommen Chandy once said, "My textbook is the people." He derived knowledge and understanding from the common people who came to meet him, learning from their grievances, sorrows, hardships, and struggles. This practical wisdom could not be obtained from any other source or book.
He was a man of the people and a skilled politician. In 2011, Oommen Chandy returned to power as the Chief Minister for the second time, securing a slim majority of two seats. However, it was his diplomatic acumen that enabled the UDF government at the time to complete a full five-year term. Despite facing severe crises in the form of the Solar and Bar controversies in the last days of his administration, he managed to overcome them all. He remained an active presence in the political landscape of Kerala since 1970 and maintained friendships that transcended party politics. Oommen Chandy's role in shaping the dynamics of Kerala politics for half a century cannot be overstated. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan aptly described his dedication to public affairs as an example for the new generation. Oommen Chandy has alwlys been a strong bond with common people and their needs.
He participated in various events like the Kerala Yatra, Markapus Conferences, and the Foundation Stone Laying of Markaz Knowledge City. During his tenure as Chief Minister in 2013, Oommen Chandy laid the foundation stone for the Markus Knowledge City, a vision of a new future. He proudly declared that Markus Knowledge City was a source of pride for the state and emphasized that even though it wasn't a public sector project, its benefits were for the people of Kerala. He also sanctioned the renovation project of Adivaram-Karassery road project kerala, facilitating access to the project area. In September 2011, he was instrumental in announcing Mark's Charity Works and launching the Markat's Cares project in various states and regions, including Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Dalhisa, Uttar Pradesh, Kashmir, Bihar, West Bengal, Lakshadweep, and Andaman.
Oommen Chandy: A Great Kerala Leader and a Profound Lesson for Other Leaders
Farewell to Eternal Abode: Kerala Ex-CM Oommen Chandy's Funeral Today
