Thiruvananthapuram, July 31: The nation mourns the loss of a distinguished politician and respected leader, Vakkom Purushothaman, who passed away at the age of 96. A stalwart of the Indian National Congress, he leaves behind a legacy of dedicated service to the people and an indelible mark on the political landscape of Kerala and the country.
Born on April 12, 1928, in the village of Vakkom in Thiruvananthapuram district, Vakkom Purushothaman began his political journey as a member of the Congress party in Kerala. He quickly rose through the ranks due to his unwavering commitment to public service and his deep-rooted connection with the people.
Purushothaman’s political career was marked by numerous achievements and contributions to the growth of the Congress party in the state. He was elected as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) five times from the Attingal Assembly constituency, and during his tenure, he served as a minister three times, overseeing critical portfolios such as agriculture, health, and tourism. His dedication and competence earned him the distinction of being the longest-serving Speaker of the Kerala Assembly, a position he held from 1982 to 1984 and later from 2001 to 2004.
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In addition to his success at the state level, Vakkom Purushothaman also made a mark at the national level. He was elected twice to the Lok Sabha from the Alappuzha constituency and served as a Member of Parliament from 1984 to 1991, diligently representing the interests of his constituents.
Vakkom Purushothaman’s illustrious career extended beyond Kerala and the Lok Sabha. He was appointed as the 6th Lieutenant Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where he played a crucial role in shaping the region’s governance from 1993 to 1996. His tenure was marked by efforts to promote development and address the unique challenges faced by the island territories.
Furthermore, his leadership and statesmanship were recognized when he was appointed as the Governor of Mizoram in 2011. During his tenure, he displayed a deep understanding of the complexities of the region and worked tirelessly to foster a sense of unity and progress among the people of Mizoram.
In 2014, Vakkom Purushothaman was entrusted with the additional responsibility of serving as the Governor of Tripura. Though his tenure in Tripura was brief, he made significant contributions to the state’s development and welfare.
Beyond his political accomplishments, Vakkom Purushothaman was revered as a mentor and guide by the current leadership of the Congress party. His wisdom, experience, and unwavering commitment to the party’s principles earned him the affectionate title of ‘guru.’
As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from across party lines. Leaders from various political parties paid their respects to the veteran leader, acknowledging his immense contributions to public life and the betterment of society.
The passing of Vakkom Purushothaman marks the end of an era in Indian politics. His life and career serve as an inspiration to aspiring politicians and public servants, reminding them of the profound impact that dedication, integrity, and selfless service can have on the nation and its people.
As the nation bids farewell to this visionary leader, his legacy will continue to guide and inspire future generations of leaders in their pursuit of a stronger, more united, and prosperous India. May his soul rest in peace.
