Paravur:
Senior Congress leader and former Member of Parliament K P Dhanapalan passed away at a private hospital in Paravur on Friday. He was 76 years old. His demise has drawn condolences from political leaders across party lines, with many remembering his decades of service in public life and his contributions to Kerala politics.
K P Dhanapalan was widely regarded as one of the prominent Congress leaders from Ernakulam district. Throughout his political career, he held several important positions in local governance, cooperative institutions and parliamentary politics. His work earned him recognition among party workers and constituents alike.
Dhanapalan began his public service journey through local self-government institutions. He served as a municipal councillor and was actively involved in addressing civic issues and community development initiatives. His grassroots political experience helped him build a strong connection with the people of his region.
Over the years, he rose through the ranks of the Congress party and became an influential leader in Kerala politics. His organisational skills and commitment to public welfare contributed to his growing prominence within the party.
One of the significant milestones in his political career was his election to the Lok Sabha, where he represented the interests of his constituents at the national level. During his tenure as a Member of Parliament, he participated in parliamentary discussions and worked on issues concerning development, infrastructure and public welfare.
Apart from electoral politics, Dhanapalan also played an important role in the cooperative sector. He served as chairman of Milma, Kerala's well-known dairy cooperative federation. During his association with the organisation, he contributed to initiatives aimed at supporting dairy farmers and strengthening the cooperative movement in the state.
Political leaders from different parties have paid tribute to Dhanapalan, describing him as a dedicated public servant who remained committed to democratic values and social development. Congress leaders, in particular, remembered his long association with the party and his efforts to strengthen the organisation at the grassroots level.
Supporters and colleagues recalled his approachable nature and willingness to engage with people from all sections of society. Many noted that his contributions extended beyond politics and included efforts toward community welfare and rural development.
His passing marks the end of a long and active public career that spanned several decades. Political observers believe his contributions to Kerala's political and cooperative sectors will continue to be remembered by future generations.
Funeral arrangements and memorial services are expected to be announced by the family and party leaders. Several political leaders are likely to attend the final rites to pay their respects.
The Congress party has expressed its condolences to the bereaved family and acknowledged Dhanapalan's contributions to public life, describing his death as a significant loss to the political community.