UAE: Kerala Expats Recall Former CM VS Achuthanandan's Support For Struggling Residents

(MENAFN- Khaleej Times)

The Malayali community across the UAE is mourning the passing of former Kerala Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan , remembering him as a“feisty” and committed leader who remained deeply connected to the struggles of working-class expatriates.

Achuthanandan, who served as Kerala's Chief Minister from 2006 to 2011, passed away on Monday at a private hospital in Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala) at the age of 101.

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A towering figure in Kerala's political landscape, the veteran communist leader and freedom fighter was widely admired for his iron will, incisive rhetoric, and unwavering commitment to social justice.

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Despite visiting the UAE only once, his legacy has left a lasting imprint on the Malayali diaspora.

Championing expatriate welfare

Speaking to Khaleej Times, O.V. Mustafa, Director of NORKA Roots, highlighted Achuthanandan's pivotal role in addressing the needs of expatriate Malayalis, especially the working-class population in the Gulf.

“He was always an ardent supporter of the Kerala diaspora,” said Mustafa, who has lived in the UAE for over 40 years.“You may be aware it was the government before him, under T.K. Nair, that set up NORKA - Non-Resident Keralites Affairs - as a department. But when V.S. became Chief Minister, one of his earliest decisions, in line with the Left Democratic Front's (LDF) election manifesto, was to introduce a pension scheme for Malayali expatriates, especially those in the lower income bracket.”

“In 2007, the first such scheme was launched through NORKA Roots under his leadership. It provided a modest monthly pension of Rs500 (approximately Dh22) to members who subscribed. For the first time, these expatriates received a pension, including arrears,” Mustafa added.

He emphasised that Achuthanandan was never a passive figurehead.“Whenever we faced challenges, he worked through the Government of India and involved the missions here to help resolve them. He was always there. I've seen him many times, and he was always curious to know about the real conditions of workers in the Gulf - their rights, their wellbeing.”

Mustafa recalled how Achuthanandan would zero in on the most pressing issues.“The first thing he would ask was about the challenges faced by ordinary workers. Whenever he took up a cause, he ensured it reached its logical end. He never left things halfway. He was one of those rare people who would study a subject thoroughly, take it up, and then deliver on his promise. His focus was always on the marginalised - whether they were, in Kerala or abroad.”

A statesman remembered

Dr Azad Moopen, Founder and Chairman, Aster DM Healthcare, also paid tribute, recalling his interaction and underscoring the profound influence Achuthanandan had on the state and its people.

“The passing of Shri V.S. Achuthanandan marks the end of an era in Kerala's political and public life. I had the privilege of meeting him on several occasions, and each interaction left a lasting impression. His clarity of thought, deep concern for the common man and unwavering commitment to justice were truly admirable. As a statesman and former Chief Minister, he championed the rights of the underprivileged and played a pivotal role in shaping modern Kerala. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.”

Yusuf Ali M.A., Chairman of LuLu Group, reflected on his longstanding association with the late leader, describing it as warm and cordial over the decades. He remembered a cherished moment from 2017, when the former Kerala Chief Minister visited his home in Abu Dhabi during a trip to the UAE.

“It was also my honour to serve alongside him on the Board of Directors of Cochin International Airport Ltd. during his tenure as chairman. Together, we worked on key developmental projects, including the Kochi Smart City initiative, among others.”

One of his most treasured memories was the leader's presence at the inauguration of Yusuf Ali's first project in Kerala - the Lulu Convention Centre in Thrissur.“His words of encouragement towards my investments as an entrepreneur were both motivating and meaningful. His consistent concern for the welfare of expatriates, coupled with his simplicity and approachability, earned him the deep respect of all who knew him.”

Dr Shamsheer Vayalil, Managing Director, VPS Healthcare & Founder and Chairman, Burjeel Holdings, noted,“Even in his later years, V.S. remained eager to learn, showing that age is never a limit when it comes to gaining knowledge. His forward-thinking approach to using technology for the greater good continues to inspire and guide future leaders.”

Admired by the people

As Malayali communities across different walks of life reflected on his life and contributions, many others also remembered him not just as a fiery speaker or a political stalwart, but as a leader who genuinely cared - and acted - for the people.

Pradeep Thoppil, General Secretary, Overseas Malayali Association (ORMA) and a UAE resident for 16 years said,“I saw him at the inauguration of Kannur Airport and had seen him on many other occasions in Kerala, especially during his time as opposition leader - a role he held three times - and later as Chief Minister.”

“His ideology was truly admirable. He always connected with those living below the poverty line and consistently stood up for the poor. He never failed to inquire about the conditions of labourers. His passing is a deep loss for every Malayali. He was a fiery, uncompromising figure who fearlessly fought against injustice and always stood by the people.”

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