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V.S. Achuthanandan, a towering figure in Indian politics, is remembered as a leader who embodied the spirit of three distinct epochs of communist history. His journey began during the tumultuous years of India's freedom struggle, where he actively participated in the Punnapra-Vayalar struggle, a symbol of the communist movement's resistance against British colonial rule. This struggle not only challenged the authority of the British but also laid the foundation for a more egalitarian and just society. Achuthanandan's commitment to social justice was evident from the outset, as he also stood at the forefront of campaigns against the princely rule in Travancore, a vestige of feudalism, and fought relentlessly against regressive social customs like casteism, which perpetuated inequality and discrimination. His rise to prominence within the Communist Party was not accidental; it was a testament to his dedication to organizing farm laborers, empowering them, and equipping them for a historic struggle against exploitation and oppression. He understood that the strength of the communist movement lay in its ability to mobilize the working class and give voice to the marginalized. His early activism shaped his political ideology and instilled in him a deep-seated commitment to the principles of communism, which guided his actions throughout his long and illustrious career. Achuthanandan's contributions to the communist movement extended far beyond the pre-independence era. He remained a prominent figure in the party for decades, navigating the complex and often contradictory landscape of Indian politics with unwavering resolve.
The formation of the first communist government in Kerala, led by the visionary E.M.S. Namboothiripad, marked a significant milestone in the history of Indian communism. During this period, Achuthanandan served as the district secretary of the Communist Party in Alappuzha, a crucial role that allowed him to contribute to the implementation of the government's progressive policies at the grassroots level. He witnessed firsthand the challenges and opportunities that came with governing a state under a communist ideology. He also played a vital role in maintaining the party's organizational strength and ensuring its continued relevance in the face of evolving political dynamics. As the years passed, Achuthanandan continued to be a leading figure within the party, providing guidance and leadership during periods of crisis and uncertainty. He played an important role during the 1975 Emergency, a dark chapter in India's democratic history, when civil liberties were suspended and political dissent was suppressed. He also helped the party navigate the setbacks faced by communist organizations globally after the fall of the Soviet Union, a period that saw many questioning the viability of communism as an ideology. And he helped the party deal with the rise of globalization in the 1990s, a phenomenon that presented new challenges to the traditional communist model of development. Throughout these turbulent times, Achuthanandan remained steadfast in his commitment to the principles of communism, adapting his approach to meet the changing circumstances but never wavering in his core beliefs. He evolved into a major communist figure, leading progressive movements and advocating for the rights of the poor and the marginalized.
K.N. Balagopal, the author of the article and the current Finance Minister of Kerala, recounts his personal experiences with V.S. Achuthanandan, offering valuable insights into the leader's character and leadership style. Balagopal first met Achuthanandan during his college days, when he was drawn to the communist leader's charisma and his unwavering commitment to social justice. Later, when Achuthanandan served as the Leader of Opposition in the Assembly, Balagopal had the opportunity to get to know him better. He describes Achuthanandan as a leader who was always keen on studying issues deeply, carefully examining the facts before forming an opinion. He was also known for his willingness to extend his support to those in need, regardless of their political affiliation. When Achuthanandan became the Chief Minister of Kerala, Balagopal was entrusted with the responsibility of serving as his political secretary. This was a challenging but rewarding experience, as Balagopal gained firsthand exposure to the inner workings of government and learned from Achuthanandan's wisdom and experience. Balagopal recalls that Achuthanandan was particular about ensuring that the issues he took up were attended to promptly. He was not one to get bogged down in bureaucratic red tape or technicalities. Also, if he was convinced about something, it was very difficult to shake his belief in it. Balagopal feels that this was both a positive and a negative characteristic of his personality. While it demonstrated his unwavering commitment to his principles, it could sometimes make him resistant to new ideas or alternative perspectives. Achuthanandan was also known for his disciplined lifestyle, adhering to a strict diet and exercise regimen. This physical discipline reflected his mental discipline and his commitment to leading a healthy and productive life.
One notable example of Achuthanandan's leadership as Chief Minister was his handling of the Mullaperiyar Dam issue, a long-standing dispute between Kerala and Tamil Nadu. He initiated discussions between the two states, led by the then Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, M. Karunanidhi. Although a definitive resolution to the dispute remained elusive, these discussions helped in bringing the two states closer and fostering a spirit of cooperation. Achuthanandan was also known for his openness to new ideas and technologies. Balagopal recounts an instance when he accompanied Achuthanandan on a ride on the Delhi Metro before the project was launched in Kochi, demonstrating his interest in learning from other states and implementing innovative solutions in Kerala. As Chief Minister, Achuthanandan maintained close relations with the Union government, recognizing the importance of cooperation between the state and the center. He had very close relations with Lalu Prasad Yadav, the then Union Railway Minister, and many other senior political leaders on the national scene. These relations proved to be advantageous for Kerala, especially during the first Congress-led United Progressive Alliance government, which had the support of the Left. Kerala benefitted much from Achuthanandan's national-level connections, particularly in matters of development, including railway infrastructure. His ability to build consensus and forge alliances across political divides was instrumental in securing crucial resources and support for the state. In conclusion, V.S. Achuthanandan was a remarkable leader who left an indelible mark on the history of Kerala and Indian politics. His unwavering commitment to the principles of communism, his dedication to social justice, and his ability to navigate complex political landscapes made him a towering figure in the communist movement. K.N. Balagopal's personal account provides valuable insights into the character and leadership style of this extraordinary leader, reminding us of the importance of principled leadership in the pursuit of a more just and equitable society.