Kerala Declares Holiday, State Mourning Following Demise of Former Chief Minister V S Achuthanandan

Thiruvananthapuram: The Government of Kerala has announced a state-wide holiday on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, following the demise of veteran CPI M leader and former Chief Minister V S Achuthanandan. The 101-year- old leader passed away at 3:20 PM in Thiruvananthapuram on Monday.

In a notification issued by the General Administration (Protocol) Department, the state government expressed profound grief over the passing of the stalwart leader, who was widely respected for his contributions to Kerala’s political and social landscape.

As a mark of respect, all state government offices, educational institutions including professional colleges, public sector undertakings, statutory and autonomous bodies, and institutions governed by the Negotiable Instruments Act will remain closed on July 22.

The state will also observe three days of mourning from July 22, during which the national flag will be flown at half-mast on all government buildings.

V S Achuthanandan, a founding member of CPI M, served as Kerala’s Chief Minister from 2006 to 2011 and was known for his anti-corruption stance, pro-people policies, and advocacy for environmental and land rights.