Sonia and Rahul Gandhi Pay Last Respects to Oommen Chandy in Bengaluru
Bengaluru, July 18: Former Congress Presidents Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi visited Bengaluru on Tuesday to pay their last respects to the late former Chief Minister of Kerala, Oommen Chandy. After offering their condolences, Rahul Gandhi also consoled the family members of the senior Congress leader.
The mortal remains of Oommen Chandy were kept at the residence of former minister T. John in Bengaluru before being taken to Kerala.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, and cabinet ministers also paid their respects to the departed leader.
Rahul Gandhi praised Oommen Chandy, saying, “Oommen Chandy ji was an exemplary grassroots Congress leader. He will be remembered for his lifelong service to the people of Kerala. We will miss him dearly. Much love and condolences to all his loved ones.”
Kharge expressed his tribute, “My humble tribute to the stalwart Oommen Chandy, Former Kerala Chief Minister, and a staunch Congressman who stood tall as a leader of the masses. His unwavering commitment and visionary leadership left an indelible mark on Kerala’s progress and the nation’s political landscape. He will be remembered for his dedication and service to the people. Heartfelt condolences to the family and supporters.”
Party General Secretary K.C. Venugopal expressed deep sorrow, “He was a visionary CM who left behind a rich legacy of pro-people governance. Under his towering leadership, Kerala reached great heights, and he transformed the state through his reformist agenda. His passing is a big loss for the Congress Party and the people of Kerala. I join our entire state in mourning the loss of our guide. My heartfelt condolences to his family and supporters.”
Oommen Chandy, who served as Kerala’s Chief Minister twice, passed away at a private hospital in Bengaluru in the early hours of Tuesday. The 79-year-old leader had been unwell and was undergoing treatment for throat cancer since November last year.
As a mark of respect, the Kerala government declared a public holiday on Tuesday, and a two-day mourning period will be observed in the state. Oommen Chandy’s long-standing service and dedication have left an indelible mark on Kerala’s political landscape and will be remembered by the people and the Congress Party.
