Name Kochi airport after K. Karunakaran, says Congress leader V.M. Sudheeran

Senior Congress leader and former Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president VM Sudheeran on Sunday, July 5, 2026, urged the United Democratic Front (UDF) government to rename the Cochin International Airport (CIAL) after former Chief Minister K. Karunakaran, describing the airport as the most enduring symbol of the late Congress’ staunch determination and vision.

Speaking after presenting flowers to Karunakaran’s memorial at Murali Mandiram at Poonkunnam in Thrissur as part of the leader’s 108th birth anniversary celebrations, Mr. Sudheeran said the airport was the culmination of Karunakaran’s unwavering determination despite numerous political and administrative hurdles.

“Karunakaran never gave up on the project despite repeated challenges. The airport stands today as a testament to his never-say-die will,” he said and appealed to the State government to take the initiative to honor him by naming the airport after him.

Mr. Sudheeran said Karunakaran’s approach to handling political, organizational and administrative crises remains a model for public life. “When the Country or State faces difficult situations, the Leader’s leadership style remains a point of reference,” he said.

Later, a commemorative meeting was held at the District Congress Committee (DCC) office to mark his birth anniversary.

The meeting was chaired by DCC chairman Joseph Tajet. A large number of senior Congress leaders and party workers attended the commemoration events.