Thiruvananthapuram: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan recalls how DMK patriarch Kalaignar M Karunanidhi had always maintained a brotherly relation with Kerala. The leader has taken extraordinary efforts to assure the bilateral ties between the neighbouring states to remain friendly, he said.

Pinarayi Vijayan also said Indian politics had lost one of its most energetic leaders. His leadership in taking up issues of Dravidian politics often stimulated movement aimed at society’s overall welfare. 

"Karunanidhi's passing away, at a time when secular democratic forces should come together, will be a significant loss. His role in strengthening areas of cooperation and narrowing down the differences between Kerala and Tamil Nadu deserves special mention," said Pinarayi.

CPM veteran VS Achuthanandan also stated that Karunanidhi was the voice of south India fighting against the north Indian supremacy. 

Karunanidhi always tried to bring about a feeling of Dravidian identity among the Tamil population. He was a leader who made a mark in different fields, and his death will remain a significant loss for the whole nation.

Achuthanandan had many interactions with Karunanidhi in connection with various issues such as Mullaperiyar Dam, Koodamkulam and treatment of PDP leader Abdul Nasser Madani.  

Kerala Governor P Sathasivam stated that Karunanidhi was a perfect combination of statesmanship and creativity. Each welfare measure he introduced as Chief Minister reflected a strong desire for social justice.

Karunanidhi had firm faith in secularism and the unmatched richness of the Tamil heritage. P Sathasivan also said this is a loss beyond words.