Senior Congress leader and former Chief Minister of Kerala, Oommen Chandy, passed away in Bengaluru on Tuesday morning, according to his family. Chandy’s son, Chandy Oommen, announced his father’s demise through a Facebook post. Survived by his wife Mariamma and children Maria Oommen, Chandy Oommen, and Achu Oommen, the news of Chandy’s death has led to a public holiday being declared in the state, accompanied by two days of mourning. The Mahatma Gandhi University has also postponed all scheduled exams for the day.
Oommen Chandy’s Political Journey and Achievements
Oommen Chandy served as the Chief Minister of Kerala on two separate occasions, from 2004 to 2006 and from 2011 to 2016. Throughout his political career, he held significant positions such as Minister of Labour, Home, and Finance in various governments led by K Karunakaran and A K Antony. Chandy’s unwavering dedication to public service was reflected in his long-standing tenure as the MLA for the Puthuppally constituency in Kottayam district, which spanned over 50 years. He first represented Puthuppally in 1970 as the Youth Congress president and later became a Minister in the K Karunakaran cabinet in 1977.
Oommen Chandy’s Contributions to Kerala’s Development
Oommen Chandy was not only a popular leader but also a driving force behind the development of Kerala. Under his leadership, several projects that played a pivotal role in enhancing the State’s Infrastructure were planned and implemented. Additionally, he prioritised the welfare of the people by introducing numerous beneficial schemes. Notable initiatives included the State Initiative on Disability, aimed at improving the lives of differently-abled individuals, and the Laborers’ Welfare Fund Act, which provided support for labourers. Despite facing opposition from both the opposition CPM and his own party Congress, Chandy persevered in advocating for the construction of the Vizhinjam port, which commenced in 2015.
Major Infrastructure Projects and Welfare Schemes during Oommen Chandy’s Tenure
During Oommen Chandy’s time in office, significant milestones were achieved in Kerala’s development. He spearheaded the initiation of the Kochi Metro, which has become an iconic symbol of the state. Despite initial controversies, the project gained momentum, with the first phase from Aluva to Palarivattam inaugurated in 2017. Another notable accomplishment was the expansion of the Government Medical College system to all districts, with the establishment of multiple medical colleges, including the first one in Manjeri in 2013. Chandy also played a crucial role in advancing the Kannur Airport project, which commenced construction in 2014 and officially began operations in December 2018.
Oommen Chandy’s Enduring Legacy
Oommen Chandy’s legacy is marked by his relentless pursuit of progress and welfare measures for the people of Kerala. His commitment to the completion of stalled National Highway Bypasses, by sharing 50% of the project costs, revived critical Infrastructure development in the state. Additionally, Chandy’s involvement in the Smart City project created ample employment opportunities for the youth and was a testament to his vision for a prosperous Kerala. Throughout his tenure, he implemented various schemes, including unemployment benefits, recruitment programs, health insurance, and subsidised rice, all aimed at improving the lives of the people.
As Kerala mourns the loss of a beloved leader, Oommen Chandy’s contributions to the state’s growth and his dedication to public service will forever be remembered and cherished.
