Achuthanandan going strong as he turns 94

Veteran CPI-M leader and former Kerala Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan turned 94 on Friday.

He is currently one of the country's oldest and active politicians, and except for a slight slowing of his movements, Achuthanandan continues to remain sharp. He also loses no opportunity to take on his critics and on issues concerning the people.

The veteran on Friday morning was busy attending to calls from well-wishers greeting him and also a steady stream of visitors calling on him.

As usual the media was present in large numbers. He also heard a new song on himself.

Of late, Achuthanandan has been maintaining a low profile when it comes to attacking his arch rival - Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

Vijayan was made the Chief Minister in May last year, after Achuthanandan was asked to lead the assembly election campaign. After the CPI-M won the election, Achuthanandan was given the decorative title of "Kerala's Castro".

In order to keep him under check, Achuthanandan was made chairman of the Administrative Reforms Commission and was given cabinet status.

Now all eyes are on what move Achuthanandan would make after a difference of opinion has surfaced on what political relations the CPI-M should have with the Congress party.

In this aspect Achuthanandan prefers to toe the line of CPI-M chief Sitaram Yechury, who prefers to have a clear understanding with the Congress. Vijayan is with Prakash Karat, who does not wish to have such a tie-up.

The difference of opinion has already become an issue in the party.

--IANS

sg/rn/vm