Prime Minister of India - Dr. Manmohan Singh

PM condoles the passing away of veteran Congress leader Karunakaran

The Prime Minister has condoled the passing away of veteran Congress leader K. Karunakaran. The Prime Minister in a condolence message to the departed leader's son Muralidharan described Shri Karunakaran as a leader widely respected for his qualities of the head and heart.

The text of the Prime Minister's condolence message is as follows:

"It is with deep sorrow and a sense of great personal loss that I have learnt of the passing away of your father Shri K. Karunakaran.

Karunakaranji was a veteran Congress leader, widely respected for his qualities of head and heart. He was a true patriot who served his country and Kerala with deep commitment and untiring zeal in a public career spanning more than six decades.

Karunakaranji distinguished himself in every public position he held. He was Chief Minister of Kerala four times. He was elected three times to the Rajya Sabha and twice to the Lok Sabha, and was the Union Minister for Industries in the mid nineties.

On a personal note, I had the privilege of benefitting from Karunakaranji's wisdom and experience many times. He was generous with his advice, which was always sagacious. I will miss him as a senior leader, a valued colleague in the Congress party and a close friend.

Popularly known as "Leader" in Kerala, Karunakaranji will be long remembered for his love of his people, his concern and sensitivity to the problems of the poor and the underprivileged, and his administrative wisdom.

On this sad occasion, I convey my heartfelt condolences to you and other members of the family, and to Karunakaranji's followers and admirers. I join all of you in praying for the departed soul."