Congress Loses a Stalwart: Thennala Balakrishna Pillai Dies at 95
Former Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president and senior Congress leader Thennala G. Balakrishna Pillai has passed away in Thiruvananthapuram at the age of 95. Known for his unwavering dedication and dignified political career, Pillai was undergoing treatment for age-related ailments at a private hospital when he breathed his last on Friday morning.
Distinguished Career in Politics
A respected figure in Kerala politics, Pillai began his journey from grassroots roles—rising from a ward-level president to two-term KPCC president (1998–2001, 2004–2005). He served as an MLA twice from Adoor and was a three-time Rajya Sabha MP for Kerala. His leadership was marked by integrity, discipline, and a principled stance, even when internal party dynamics posed challenges.
Remembered for Humility and Service
C.M. Pinarayi Vijayan, Kerala’s Chief Minister, expressed deep sorrow at his passing:
“With the demise of Shri Thennala Balakrishna Pillai, we have lost a highly respected and dignified political leader.”
Pillai was renowned for his soft-spoken demeanour and refusal to engage in factional politics. He was respected across ideological divides and is remembered for personal sacrifices—such as selling property to raise party funds.
Final Rites Underway
His final rites are scheduled to be held in his home at Mukkola, Nettayam, in Thiruvananthapuram, where party colleagues and well-wishers will gather to pay tribute.
Legacy:
Thennala Balakrishna Pillai’s life spanned more than six decades of public service. From grassroots activism to leading state-level politics, his legacy is marked by principled leadership, humility, and unwavering loyalty to the Congress. His passing closes a defining chapter in Kerala’s political history.
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