Senior Congress leader and former Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president V. M. 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 stalwart’s determination and vision.
Speaking after offering floral tributes at Karunakaran’s memorial at Murali Mandiram in Poonkunnam in Thrissur as part of the leader’s 108th birth anniversary observance, Mr. Sudheeran said the airport was the culmination of Karunakaran’s unwavering resolve despite numerous political and administrative hurdles.
“Even in the face of repeated challenges, Karunakaran never gave up on the project. The airport stands today as a testament to his never-say-die will,” he said, calling upon the State government to take the initiative to honour him by naming the airport after him.
Mr. Sudheeran said Karunakaran’s approach to handling political, organisational and administrative crises continued to serve as a model for public life. “Whenever the country or the State faces difficult situations, the Leader’s style of leadership remains a reference point,” he said.
A remembrance meeting was organised later at the District Congress Committee (DCC) office in connection with the birth anniversary celebrations.
DCC president Joseph Tajet presided over the meeting. Several senior Congress leaders and party workers attended the commemorative events.
Published – July 05, 2026 04:30 pm IST
