Veteran communist leader, former Kerala CM VS Achuthanandan turns 100

Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala) [India], October 20 (ANI): Veteran CPIM leader and former Chief Minister of Kerala VS Achuthanandan turned 100 on Friday.
Achuthanandan lives with his family in Thiruvananthapuram.
VS Achuthanandan, a senior leader of CPIM in India, entered politics through trade union activities. He was a member of the Kerala Assembly seven times and the 11th Chief Minister of Kerala.
He was the opposition leader three times, served as CPIM party secretary three times, and was a CPI (M) political bureau member for long periods.
VS Achuthanandan was keen on upholding communist principles while holding various positions as Chief Minister, legislature, or opposition leader. He started a mission to remove land encroachments in Munnar in the Idukki district, even though he was criticised by his party when he was the chief minister. The common-party workers had offered him support for his actions.
The party workers of CPIM are celebrating Achuthanandan's 100th birthday across the state by distributing sweets and cutting cakes. However, due to his health condition, the workers may not be allowed to meet him.
Kerala governor Arif Muhammad Khan, CM Pinarayi Vijayan, opposition leader VD Satheesan, ministers, MLAs, and others also extended their birthday wishes to VS Achuthanandan.
"Hearty greetings and best wishes to former Chief Minister VS Achuthanandan on his 100th birthday. I join the people of Kerala in wishing the beloved and respected people's leader good health and happiness", Governor Khan posted on X.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan also extended his wishes and said that the role played by the former chief minister in transforming Kerala is undeniable.
"Comrade VS Achuthanandan's life has travelled along with the history of modern Kerala. The role played by leaders, including VS in transforming Kerala into today's Kerala is undeniable. He has stood with the lower classes throughout his life. Therefore, the centenary of VS is an occasion of joy and pride not only for the labour movements, progressive movements, and the Communist Party but also for the entire country. Happy birthday to Comrade VS", the Chief Minister said. (ANI)