'Remember looking at his face after crucial Politburo meeting'; VS Achuthanandan’s former PA Suresh opens up

A Suresh remained like a shadow of VS Achuthanandan for over a decade. Suresh served as the PA to VS Achuthanandan during the latter's most decorated political period. Through the political upheavals and big wins, Suresh Kumar, a former personal assistant of VS, stood thick and thin.

A SURESH KUMAR:

“In 2002, the district committee appointed me as the personal assistant of VS, the then-opposition leader. That's when I became close to the leader I saw from afar. VS asked for my details from the very first interaction. VS, being the opposition leader, would not always be in Malampuzha, and assigned me to help solve this problem.

I obeyed his order and informed him of various issues related to the constituency. This helped me earn his trust and confidence. After becoming close, VS cared for me like a son.

I see him as the greatest and most uncompromising leader of political Kerala, who led a life of sacrifice and struggle. He is the greatest leader with a communist style who goes to the extreme for what he thinks is right, be it political or administrative. He was able to accomplish things, including acquiring tens of thousands of acres of land occupied illegally and dismantling the lottery mafia.

VS was an exemplar of how to be an ideal opposition leader. Instead of sitting idle in the Cantonment House, VS held press conferences and issued statements, addressing the problems of the people. He always found time to listen to people who were younger or less experienced. VS was a thorough communist and led a life upholding the values.

During my time with VS, I paid special attention to everything, including his medicine, food, and sleep. It was not a menial task. I have put aside many personal matters. I arrived late at the hospital, even when my father was admitted to the hospital in critical condition. I couldn’t be alongside my wife during her delivery. I consider it a blessing in life to be a part of VS's team and to be one of his favourite people. I knew in advance that I would be expelled from the party as part of disciplinary action.

After the PB meeting, the decision was made to fire me. It was very difficult to suddenly step aside after being a constant companion with VS for so long. I remember looking into VS Achuthanandan’s face, and I saw him crestfallen.