Oommen Chandy: RIP, the Statesman and Former Chief Minister of Kerala

Oommen Chandy, the esteemed Indian politician and statesman who twice served as the Chief Minister of Kerala, has passed away. His tenures, from 2004 to 2006 and again from 2011 to 2016, were marked by significant contributions to the welfare and development of the state. As the Leader of the Opposition in the Kerala Legislative Assembly from 2006 to 2011, and a continuous representative of the Puthuppally constituency in the State Assembly from 1970 until his death in 2023, Chandy’s political career was noteworthy.

Born on October 31, 1943, in Kumarakom, Kerala, Chandy’s journey into politics began as a student leader. After studying law at the Government Law College, Thiruvananthapuram, and being admitted to the bar in 1967, Chandy took the leap into the political arena. He was first elected to the Kerala Legislative Assembly in 1970, marking the start of a political career that spanned over five decades.

Chandy’s tenure as Chief Minister was characterized by his emphasis on social welfare and development. He initiated several projects to boost education, healthcare, and infrastructure within Kerala, gaining significant recognition for his commitment to these sectors. A key achievement during his tenure was the successful resolution of the enduring border dispute between Kerala and Karnataka.

Chandy’s humility, simplicity, and steadfast commitment to public service earned him widespread respect and admiration. His exceptional contributions to public service were globally recognized when he received the UN Public Service Award in 2012 for his work on the Kerala Model of Development.

On July 18, 2023, Oommen Chandy passed away at the age of 79. He is survived by his wife, Mariamma, and their two sons. His legacy as a dedicated public servant who tirelessly worked for the betterment of Kerala’s citizens is one that will continue to inspire future generations. The nation will remember him as a true statesman whose commitment and contributions significantly impacted the state and the country.