VS is Immortal; ‘Last Communist’ Narrative is Right-Wing Propaganda: M V Govindan

Thiruvananthapuram: The right-wing has long followed a pattern of mocking communists during their lifetimes and then portraying them as saints after their death, said CPI M state secretary M V Govindan. Speaking at a press conference, he said the narrative that veteran CPI M leader V S Achuthanandan was the “last communist” and that communism ended with him is part of this longstanding propaganda tactic.

“This is not a new idea; such claims have surfaced in the past as well,” Govindan said. “But the dreams and goals of V S are the same as those of the CPI M. The people who lined the funeral procession declared aloud that ‘V S is not dead; he lives through us.’ His vision will live on through generations and will certainly be realised. The immortal V S continues to live among us.”

Govindan described Marxism as the guiding light for a global spring and said that communists cannot engage in politics by detaching themselves from the larger movement. “That is the political truth the right-wing fails to grasp,” he remarked.

The farewell to V S, Govindan said, was a reflection of the profound love the people of Kerala had for him. “Neither rain nor nightfall could deter the massive turnout. At a time when there is a perception that the younger generation is distancing itself from politics, this event was a resounding counterpoint, marked by their active presence. The notable participation of women right from the beginning was also significant,” he added.

VS Memorial on August 1

A grand condolence meeting will be held in Thiruvananthapuram on August 1 in memory of V S Achuthanandan, M V Govindan announced. Prominent figures from Kerala’s social and cultural spheres will take part in the event. Memorial programs will also be organised across the state until August 10. Govindan called upon everyone to actively support and participate in these events.