Bhubaneswar, July 21: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, and several other prominent figures from the State on Monday condoled the death of former Kerala CM VS Achuthanandan.

Achuthanandan, a founding member of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), passed away in Thiruvananthapuram while undergoing treatment following a cardiac arrest nearly a month ago. He served as Kerala’s Chief Minister from 2006 to 2011 and was elected to the state Assembly seven times.

Taking to X, CM Majhi wrote, “Saddened to hear about the demise of former Kerala CM VS Achuthanandan. Heartfelt condolences to his family and admirers. May Mahaprabhu Jagannath grant him eternal peace. Om Shanti.” He described Achuthanandan as a principled leader whose simplicity and conviction earned respect across party lines.

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also paid tribute, acknowledging Achuthanandan’s lifelong commitment to the rights of the underprivileged and his role in shaping Kerala’s political ethos.

Leader of Opposition and BJD chief Naveen Patnaik echoed similar sentiments, calling him “a doyen of Indian politics” and “an exemplary statesman.”

The CPI(M) Odisha unit announced a three-day mourning period, with party flags flown at half-mast in honor of Achuthanandan’s legacy. State secretary Suresh Chandra Panigrahy emphasized the leader’s enduring influence on the Left movement and his unwavering dedication to public welfare.

Achuthanandan’s death marks the end of an era in Indian politics, particularly within the Left movement, where he stood as a symbol of integrity, resilience, and grassroots activism.