Former Kerala CM VS Achuthanandan Remembered by Longtime Driver E.V. Arjunan

Quick Summary

• E.V. Arjunan served as teh driver for V.S. Achuthanandan, former Kerala Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition, for nearly three decades (1992-2019).
• Arjunan initially became Achuthanandan’s driver unexpectedly in 1992 when the leader’s car broke down during a visit to Kuttanad. He eventually became his permanent driver.
• During their long association, Arjunan drove Achuthanandan across Kerala during his tenure as Leader of Opposition, Chief Minister, and Chairperson of the State Administrative Reforms Commission.
• Reflecting on their time together, Arjunan describes Achuthanandan as “a man of ethics” who maintained a serious demeanor but shared valuable lessons occasionally.
• The last meeting between the two occurred in December 2022 at Achuthanandan’s residence in Thiruvananthapuram; while unable to speak due to illness,the former leader smiled warmly at his longtime companion.

Indian Opinion Analysis
E.V. Arjunan’s reflections on his decades-long association with V.S.achuthanandan underscore the human dimensions behind public leadership roles often marked by political responsibilities and ethical rigor.From unexpected beginnings to becoming an integral support system for one of Kerala’s pivotal leaders, arjunan witnessed firsthand both historical events and quieter personal moments that shaped modern politics in Kerala under CPI(M)’s legacy.

The portrayal of Achuthanandan as “a man of ethics” aligns with his widely regarded image as a principled leader committed to governance reforms and opposition advocacy throughout turbulent political periods in Kerala’s history. This anecdotal remembrance is instructive not only about leadership but also about how unnoticed individuals like chauffeurs contribute meaningfully to ensuring public figures fulfill their duties effectively.

As Kerala prepares for farewell tributes recognizing its veteran statesman’s contributions, such personal accounts add depth to understanding how impactful leadership often transcends formal titles into character-driven legacies remembered by those closest.

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