KOCHI: The packed audience at the Ernakulam Town Hall yesterday witnessed the depth of the friendship between the political leaders. Minister AK Saseendran's eyes were filled with tears during the reception given by the state unit to PC Chacko, who left the Congress and joined the NCP.

'I was happy to have my former leader and close friend back. When I spoke about it on stage, all the old memories came to mind. Later, when I spoke to PC Chacko about this, my eyes filled with tears. We have been at the helm of the Youth Congress for three-terms since 1967. At that time we lived together for a long time in the Youth Congress Bhavan near St. Albert's College, Ernakulam. Later we moved to a nearby lodge. All the activities, misery and jokes of that day came to mind again. I cried because of those memories'- minister Saseendran told Kerala Kaumudi.

'PC Chacko said the sight of Saseendran's eyes filling with tears shook his mind. Politically they were on different sides for years but the old friendship was maintained. The Youth Congress building was made two storeys in their time. Sasi is one of my closest friends. This friend will be with him for his success'-PC Chacko said.