Former Kerala CM and senior Congress leader Oommen Chandy died at the age of 79, informed his son on Tuesday (July 18) morning. Oommen Chandy was the chief minister of Kerala from 2004-2006 and 2011-2016. Chandy passed away at Chinmaya Hospital in Bengaluru at 4.25 am on Tuesday. He was aged 79 and had been undergoing treatment for cancer, reported ANI.
Represented Puthupally constituency in Kottayam district for more than 50 years
Oommen Chandy represented the Puthupally constituency in Kottayam district for more than 50 years. He was the MLA from Puthupally. Chandy first represented Puthupally in 1970 when he was the Youth Congress president. He became a minister for the first time in the K Karunakaran cabinet in 1977. He was appointed Chief Minister twice. He had handled the finance portfolio in the state. He had also been the Leader of Opposition, according to news agency ANI.
"Janasambarka paripady" programme by him was popular
Chandy was a leader who was always reachable to his people. His programme "Janasambarka paripady" which was launched to hear people's complaints when he was the Chief Minister was very popular. Following his sickness, he had been undergoing treatment in the USA and then he continued his treatment in Bengaluru.
Congress President K Sudhakaran tweets
"The tale of the king who triumphed over the world with the power of 'love' finds its poignant end. Today, I am deeply saddened by the loss of a legend, @Oommen_Chandy. He touched the lives of countless individuals, and his legacy will forever resonate within our souls. RIP!" tweeted Kerala Congress President K Sudhakaran.
Congress general secretary KC Venugopal arrived at Chinmaya Mission Hospital in Bengaluru where former Kerala CM and senior leader of the party, Oommen Chandy passed away this morning.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, along with UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi visited the house of Oommen Chandy. Rahul paid rich tributes to the departed leader and said, "Chandy ji represented the spirit of Kerala and the spirit of India."
Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan expressed deep grief over the death of former CM Oommen Chandy.
"We were elected to the Legislative Assembly in the same year. It was at the same stage that we came to the political fore through student life. We led public life at the same time and it is extremely difficult to bid him farewell. Oommen Chandy was a capable administrator and a person who was closely involved in people's lives," said Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan, in his tribute to Oommen Chandy.
(With agency inputs)
