Kochi : A gentle, radiant presence moulded by intensity of struggles - that’s hallmark of the leadership known as Kodiyeri Balakrishnan. And, Kodiyeri’s re-ascend to the helm of the revolutionary establishment lends fullness to that endowment.
Kodiyeri’s first elation as CPI(M) State Secretary came at 2015 Alappuzha State Sammelanam(Conference). Then in 2018, the top post was conferred once again in Thrissur Sammelanam if 2018- this time with the herculean task to ensure CPI(M) continued its governance post the 2021 polls. Kodiyeri’s third term now reflects CPI(M)’s content over that goal fulfilled.
Kodiyeri Balakrishnan’s leadership draws on experience from struggle-blazed trail His signature style is confronting of crises with a gentle smile. Meticulously organised work, zeal for upkeeping people’s trust in CPI(M) and unwavering commitment to the party - these are the essence of Kodiyeri’s leadership.
Kodiyeri debuted into politics through student establishment. Kodiyeri was born on 16 Nov 1953, as son of Late Shri. Kunjunni Kurup, a school teacher in Thalassery and Smt. Narayaniamma. After school, young Kodiyeri joined Mahatma Gandhi College to do his pre-degree and became chairman to the college union there. He later joined the University College in Thiruvananthapuram for degree studies and while at the city college, became SFI Sate Secretary in 1973, a position he retained up to 1979.
Kodiyeri played active role in restoring peace during Thalassery riots of 1971, serving there as CPI(M) Branch Secretary and Local Secretary. Kodiyeri was DYFI District Secretary in Kannur between 1980 - 82 and later became party District Secretary for Kannur in 1990 - 95. Kodiyeri became State Committee member at 1988 Alappuzha Sammelanam and went to be included as member of State Secretariat in 1995. From there, Kodiyeri rose to be a member of the Central Committee during 17th Party Congress of 2002 held in Hyderabad and was elated as Polit Bureau member in 19th Party Congress of 2008.
Jailed during Emergency in Kannur Central Prison, Kodiyeri underwent intense police torture. He also suffered police brutality while holding Rail strike in demand of farmers’ rights.
Kodiyeri first victory as MLA came in Assembly elections of 1982 in Thalassery. He continued to represent that constituency in 1987, 2001 and 2011. Kodiyeri was state Home Minister and Minister For Tourism during 2006 -11. The Janamaitri police system was introduced in that time.
Kodiyeri was Deputy Opposition Leader in 2001 and 2011. Kodyeri’s wife is SR Vinodini, the daughter of CPI(M) veteran MV Rajagopalan Master. Children : Binoi, Adv Bineesh. Daughters-in-law : Dr. Akhila, Rineeta.
