Senior Communist Party of India (CPI) leader and former Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) R Ramachandran, a stalwart in the southern Kollam district, breathed his last on Tuesday at a private hospital after battling a brief illness. The 75-year-old leader, survived by his wife and daughter, succumbed to complications arising from long-standing liver-related ailments.

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Ramachandran, who had represented the Karunagapally constituency in the state assembly from 2016 to 2021, played a pivotal role in the CPI, the second-largest coalition partner in the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF).

Despite an unsuccessful bid in the last assembly election, his unwavering commitment to the party’s organizational endeavors remained steadfast.

In addition to his legislative contributions, Ramachandran served as a dedicated member of the CPI state council, highlighting his extensive involvement in shaping the party’s policies and direction.

His influence extended beyond the political arena, as evidenced by his tenure as the chairman of the state-run Small Industries Development Corporation (SIDCO) and as a vice president in the district panchayat in earlier years.

As news of his demise spread, senior CPI(M) leader and state Finance Minister K N Balagopal expressed heartfelt condolences, acknowledging the significant contributions of R Ramachandran to both the party and the broader governance landscape.

The loss of this seasoned leader leaves a void in the political fabric of Kollam and the CPI, marking the end of an era characterized by dedicated public service.

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The passing of R Ramachandran serves as a poignant reminder of the indelible mark he left on Kerala’s political landscape, embodying a legacy of commitment, resilience, and service to the people.