In a significant loss to Kerala’s political landscape, K.P. Unnikrishnan, the veteran leader who represented Vadakara in Parliament six times and served as a Union Minister, breathed his last on Tuesday at the age of 89. His death marks the end of a illustrious career spanning over three decades in public life.
Born on September 20, 1936, in a family along the Malabar coast, Unnikrishnan was the son of E. Kunhikannan Nair. He pursued his education at Madras Christian College in Chennai, later earning a law degree from the same institution. Before fully immersing himself in politics, he worked as a journalist, contributing as a special correspondent for publications like Mathrubhumi.
Unnikrishnan’s political journey began in the 1960s with affiliations to the Socialist Party and Praja Socialist Party. By 1962, he had joined the All India Congress Committee. The Congress fielded him from Vadakara in the 1971 Lok Sabha elections, where he secured his first victory, going on to win in 1977, 1980, 1984, 1989, and 1991. His deep connection with Vadakara’s electorate was evident in these repeated triumphs.
In 1980, he left the Congress to join Congress (U), and by 1984, he was with the Indian Congress (Socialist). He faced defeat in 1996 from Vadakara. Between 1981 and 1984, he led the Congress (Secular) in Parliament and served on the Public Accounts Committee from 1980 to 1982.
During 1989-90, under V.P. Singh’s government, Unnikrishnan held portfolios in Telecommunications, Shipping, and Surface Transport. He played a pivotal role in evacuating Indians during the Gulf War crisis. Post-1996, he retreated from active politics, dividing his time between New Delhi and his ancestral home in Pannyankara, Kozhikode, engaging in reading and writing.
Unnikrishnan’s legacy as a dedicated parliamentarian and minister will be remembered fondly by those who followed his career. His contributions to national crises and consistent electoral success underscore his stature in Indian politics.