Former Kerala PWD Minister TU Kuruvila Dies at 89

Kochi: Former Kerala minister and Kerala Congress (Joseph) vice-president TU Kuruvila died at a private hospital here late on Friday night, party sources said. He was 89 years old and had been receiving treatment for age-related illnesses for a long time.

Kuruvila served as Public Works Minister in the VS Achuthanandan-led government and represented Kothamangalam Assembly constituency from 2006 to 2011.

A senior leader of the Kerala Congress Joseph faction, he also served as a member of the Rubber Board and chairman of the state Housing Board.

Chief Minister VD Satheesan condoled Kuruvila’s death, describing him as a determined Kerala Congress leader who stood firmly by PJ Joseph throughout his political career.

Expressing his solidarity with the bereaved family and colleagues, the Chief Minister said, “He left the post of Panchayat president and became a minister. His death is an irreparable loss for the political sphere of Kerala.” he said.

Opposition Leader Pinarayi Vijayan also expressed his condolences and said Kuruvila had made significant contributions to public life as a minister and representative of the people.

In his condolence message, he said, “He was a leader who remained close to the people thanks to his political work and many years of public service, and this made him a different personality.” he said.