Former Puducherry Chief Minister and veteran political leader M.D.R Ramachandran passed away last night following prolonged age related ailments. He was 90.
Mr Ramachandran served as Chief Minister of Puducherry twice from 1980 to 1983 and from 1990 to 1991. He was also Speaker of the Puducherry Legislative Assembly from 2001 to 2006.
Mr Ramachandran began his political journey as a Dravida Munnetra Kazhakam(DMK) MLA in 1969. Later he contested from various constituencies under both DMK and All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) tickets. In 2000, he joined Congress party. He also served as the vice president of Puducherry Pradesh Congress Committee.
Chief Minister N. Rangasamy has expressed grief over the demise of the stalwart political leader. Highlighting Mr. Ramachandran’s contributions in a condolence message, the Chief Minister stated that his tenure as both a minister and Chief Minister saw the implementation of numerous schemes that were well-received by the public. The Chief Minister added that Mr. Ramachandran also served as the Speaker of the Puducherry Legislative Assembly with distinction, leaving a lasting impact on the state’s development.
The Puducherry government has announced a three-day mourning as a mark of respect. The funeral will be conducted with full state honors.