Aluva, Kerala – Senior Congress leader and former UDF convener P P Thankachan passed away at the age of 86 on Tuesday at a private hospital in Aluva. He succumbed to age-related ailments around 4:30 pm, marking the end of an era in Kerala politics. Known for his deep-rooted political acumen, Thankachan played a pivotal role in shaping the state’s political landscape, serving as Assembly Speaker, Agriculture Minister, and a four-time MLA.
Born on July 29, 1939, in Angamaly, P P Thankachan began his career as a lawyer before entering public service. He gained national attention in 1968 when, at just 29 years old, he became the youngest municipality chairman in India by leading the Perumbavoor Municipality. His political journey further advanced when he contested and won the Perumbavoor assembly seat in 1982, defeating CPI(M)’s PR Sivan by 6252 votes. He successfully retained the seat in the subsequent elections of 1987, 1991, and 1996, cementing his reputation as a seasoned legislator.
Thankachan held several prominent posts, including serving as Assembly Speaker and Agriculture Minister in AK Antony’s cabinet. In 2005, following a leadership change in the United Democratic Front (UDF), he assumed the role of UDF convener when Oommen Chandy became Kerala’s Chief Minister. For 13 years, Thankachan provided steady leadership, characterized by maturity and harmony, navigating the UDF through various political challenges. He was also a key figure during the politically charged Jupiter era of Kerala politics.
Beyond electoral politics, Thankachan was deeply involved in labor and trade union movements and chaired the Kerala Market Fed, contributing to the welfare of market traders and workers in the state. Despite his previous string of electoral victories, his political career faced setbacks when he lost the 2001 and 2006 assembly elections.
Tributes are pouring in from political leaders, colleagues, and citizens, who remember P P Thankachan as a committed leader who played a central role in shaping Kerala’s democratic and economic progress. His legacy is one of steadfast dedication to public service, political integrity, and labor rights.
As Kerala and the political community mourn his loss, his contributions will continue to inspire future generations of leaders committed to the state’s progress.
