RJD Kerala Vice-President Charupara Ravi Passes Away at 77
Thiruvananthapuram: Veteran socialist leader and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) Kerala vice-president Charupara Ravi passed away at the age of 77. He breathed his last at a private hospital in Thiruvananthapuram on Monday, marking the end of a decades-long journey in public service and political activism.
Ravi, who began his political life at the young age of 18, was a staunch follower of socialist ideologies and actively engaged with various Janata Dal movements. Deeply inspired by the philosophies of Mahatma Gandhi, Rammanohar Lohia, and Jayaprakash Narayan, he remained a prominent voice for social justice and workers' rights throughout his life.
Voice of the Plantation Workers
A fearless campaigner, Charupara Ravi played a pivotal role in several agitations within the plantation sector. He was notably involved in protests led by Hind Mazdoor Sabha (HMS) labourers, demanding fair wages and improved living conditions. His grassroots activism earned him recognition as a committed leader among labour and trade union circles in Kerala.
Imprisonment During the Emergency
A vocal opponent of the Emergency declared in 1975, Ravi was imprisoned for over four months due to his fierce criticism of the then-central government. His resistance during that politically tumultuous period further cemented his status as a defender of democratic rights and civil liberties.
Roles in Public Institutions
Ravi also held various important administrative positions during his career. In 1990, he was appointed vice-chairman of the Rubber Board. He later served as a member of the KSRTC (Kerala State Road Transport Corporation) director board in 1996, and as a member of the Devaswom Board in 1999.
He contributed to the development of healthcare and education by being part of the development committees of both the Medical College and the Ayurveda College in Thiruvananthapuram.
Editor of 'Socialist Pathrika'
Beyond politics, Charupara Ravi also had a presence in the media world. He served as the managing editor of the magazine Socialist Pathrika, which focused on political discourse, social justice, and workers’ issues.
End of an Era
Charupara Ravi’s demise marks the loss of a courageous voice in Kerala's socialist movement. Known for his principled stand and unwavering commitment to democratic ideals, his contributions to politics, labour rights, and public institutions will be remembered by many.
Funeral arrangements and official tributes are expected to follow from party leaders and civil society in the coming days.