THRISSUR: Former Congress leader and MLA V. Balaram (72) passed away. He was in treatment for a respiratory ailment at a hospital. He is a former KPCC general secretary and was a prominent leader of the Congress (I) in Thrissur.

Balaram was noted for giving up his MLA post in 2004 in order for K. Muraleedharan to contest election. But Muraleedharan lost the by-election. Balaram was made the Lok Sabha candidate in Kozhikode for sacrificing his MLA post, but he couldn't emerge as the winner. He was a confidant of K. Karunakaran and following him out of Congress when the 'leader' former DIC. Later, Balaram rejoined Congress.

Balaram's body will be taken to the DCC office and kept for public showing till 3.30 pm. Funeral time will be decided later.

Wife: late Dr Kanchana Balaram

Children: Deepa, Lakshmi

In-laws: Vinu, Shirin