K.M. Chandy (politician)

K. M. Chandy was born on 6 August 1921 at Palai in Kottayam District as the son of Mariyam and Mathai of the Kizhakkayil family. He had 3 younger brothers including Pala K.M. Mathew (Former Member Of Parliament) and a sister.[2] He had his schooling in his home town Palai and College education at Changanacherry and Trivandrum. He completed his M.A. in English Language and literature in 1942.

He was married to Mariakutty Chandy in the year 1939 at the age of 18. They have eight sons and two daughters.[3]

Chandy's entry into the world of politics was marked by youthful zeal and an unwavering commitment to justice. During his tenure as an intermediate student at St. Berchman’s College in Changanacherry, he exhibited extraordinary leadership. At the tender age of 17, he orchestrated a courageous student uprising. This protest was in response to a brutal lathi charge on students in Trivandrum who had gathered to express their support for State Congress leaders. Despite the repercussions of expulsion, Chandy and his comrades were eventually reinstated, following a stirring mass Satyagraha at the college gates.

As he pursued his Honours course in English literature at Trivandrum, Chandy played a pivotal role in the establishment of the "Tagore Academy". This institution, founded under the guidance of the esteemed Gandhian leader Shri G. Ramachandran, aimed to infuse education with nationalist ideals. However, the academy's noble goals led to its prohibition in 1942 due to its association with fostering patriotic sentiments among students and youth.[4]

The year 1946 marked a significant turning point in Chandy's life, as he immersed himself in the fervor of the freedom movement. Serving as the Secretary of the Meenachil Taluk Congress Committee, his ardor for political activism attracted the attention of the state government. Responding to his growing influence, an official prohibitory order sought to curtail his involvement in political activities. However, his spirit remained unbroken, and he continued his unwavering commitment to the cause of freedom.

Chandy's dedication was put to the test when he was apprehended in July 1946. Though he secured bail from the High Court, his journey took a different trajectory as he was detained under the Defense of India Act. This period of detainment extended until the conclusion of September 1947, a poignant period of transition that coincided with India's attainment of independence.

The dawn of India's independence heralded a new chapter in Chandy's political journey, characterized by remarkable achievements. At the remarkable age of 26, he was bestowed the honor of unanimous election to the State Legislature. This victory was but the harbinger of subsequent successes in 1952 and 1954. Chandy's affiliation with the Congress Party deepened, and he assumed pivotal roles such as Chief Whip in the State Assembly.

His imprint extended beyond legislative duties to encompass membership in the inaugural State Planning Board. Additionally, he played a prominent part in the State Minimum Wages Advisory Board, where he contributed to the formulation of equitable minimum wage standards across diverse industries. Long before the Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC) was established, Chandy's pioneering efforts led to the organization and leadership of Trade Unions under the banner of "THOZHILALI".[5]

Chandy's commitment to the Congress Party was profound and enduring. His influence within the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) was instrumental in shaping the party's trajectory in the state. He embarked on a journey within the ranks of the KPCC in 1948, a journey that spanned decades and left an indelible mark on the party's history.

Prof.K.M.Chandy along with K. Karunakaran having a conversation with Indira Gandhi

He assumed the mantle of General Secretary of the KPCC from 1963 to 1967, a period marked by his strategic vision and organizational acumen. Chandy's leadership was characterized by a commitment to democratic processes within the party, even in times when committee sizes were far more modest than they are today. He played a pivotal role in guiding the KPCC through challenges and charting a course aligned with the party's principles.

Chandy's dedication extended to financial stewardship as he assumed the role of Treasurer of the KPCC from 1967 to 1972. His ability to manage party finances with transparency and integrity bolstered the party's credibility among its supporters and the public at large.[6]

In January 1978, Chandy's indomitable spirit led him to resign from the Chairmanship of the Rubber Board to take up the monumental challenge of revitalizing the image of the Congress Party in Kerala. At a time when many had distanced themselves from Indira Gandhi's leadership, Chandy undertook the arduous task of rejuvenating the party's fortunes. His visionary leadership played a pivotal role in the resurgence of the Congress in Kerala after a prolonged hiatus.

Under his stewardship, the Congress triumphantly returned to power in Kerala, marking a significant victory for the party. This resurgence was a testament to Chandy's strategic prowess, organizational skills, and deep-rooted connection with the people of Kerala.[7]

Prof.K.M.Chandy in Conversation with Mother Teresa

Chandy's illustrious journey within the Congress Party culminated in a multifaceted role as a statesman. His exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment, and distinguished service were recognized by none other than Mrs. Indira Gandhi, the indomitable Prime Minister of India. With her unyielding trust in his abilities, Chandy was bestowed with a series of significant gubernatorial appointments that added new dimensions to his already remarkable legacy.

On September 7, 1998, Prof. K.M Chandy's earthly journey concluded, leaving behind an enduring legacy that encompasses his remarkable contributions to co-operatives, education, politics, and his roles as a governor. His life story continues to reverberate throughout Kerala and beyond, a testament to his exceptional leadership and the mark he left on Indian governance. [9]

He couldn’t complete his autobiography titled "Jeevitha Vazhiyorakazhchakal" due to his sudden death, but later it was published by Labour (India) publications in 1999 after his death.

A biography on him titled "Varika Varika Sahajare" was written by Pala K.M. Mathew published by Current Books in 2009.[10][11][12][13][14]