Former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, a senior Congress leader, and popular public figure, passed away at the age of 79 in a Bengaluru hospital on July 18. Chandy, who had been undergoing treatment for cancer, breathed his last early in the morning, leaving behind a legacy of service and leadership.
A Stalwart of Kerala Politics
Oommen Chandy, a highly respected figure in Kerala politics, served as a legislator representing the Puthupally constituency in the Kottayam district for an extended period of time. He held the position of Chief Minister of Kerala on two occasions, leading the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) ministries from August 31, 2004, to May 12, 2006, and from May 18, 2011, to May 20, 2016. With a political career spanning decades, Chandy made significant contributions in various ministerial roles.
From Humble Beginnings to Political Prominence
Born on October 31, 1943, to Karottu Vallakalil K.V. Chandy and Baby Chandy, Oommen Chandy embarked on his political journey through active involvement with the Kerala Students Union (KSU) and the Youth Congress. He climbed the ranks, serving as the State general secretary of the KSU in 1965 and its State president in 1967. Chandy completed his education at prominent institutions like St. George High School in Kottayam, CMS College in Kottayam, SB College in Changanassery, and Government Law College in Thiruvananthapuram.
A Remarkable Political Journey
Chandy’s political journey was marked by significant achievements and leadership roles. He was elected to the Kerala Legislative Assembly for the first time in 1970 and held various positions within the Congress party. Chandy held the position of Labour Minister in the K. Karunakaran Ministry in 1977, and subsequently, he served as Labour Minister once again in A.K. Antony’s ministry. Chandy’s expertise extended to finance, as he held the Finance portfolio in the UDF ministry in 1991.
A Leader Close to the People
Known for his astute political maneuvers and popularity among the masses, Oommen Chandy was widely respected within the Congress party. He served as the Opposition Leader from 2006 to 2011 and was the convener of the UDF during 1982-86 and 2001-2004. Chandy’s unique initiative, the ‘Mass Contact’ program, aimed to address public grievances during his tenure as Chief Minister, highlighting his commitment to the welfare of the people.
