Former Union Minister KP Unnikrishnan Passes Away at 89

KP Unnikrishnan, a notable figure in Indian politics, has passed away at the age of 89. Known for his significant contributions during his tenure as a Union Minister, he played a vital role in various political movements and served multiple terms in the Lok Sabha. His legacy includes overseeing the evacuation of Indians during the Gulf War and his long-standing association with the Congress party. Born in 1936, Unnikrishnan's journey from journalism to politics is marked by dedication and service. His passing marks the end of an era in Indian political history.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 3, 2026, 16:14 IST

Tribute to a Political Veteran

KP Unnikrishnan, a prominent figure in Indian politics during the 1980s and 1990s, passed away early Tuesday morning, as confirmed by his family. He was 89 years old. His family reported that he died at a private hospital in Kozhikode while receiving treatment for age-related ailments.

Unnikrishnan was elected to the Lok Sabha from Vadakara six consecutive times and served as a Union Minister in the cabinet of VP Singh, overseeing the ministries of surface transport and communications from 1989 to 1990.

A Life Dedicated to Public Service

During his ministerial tenure, he played a crucial role in the evacuation of Indians during the Gulf War. Unnikrishnan began his career as a journalist and was first elected to the Lok Sabha in 1971 as a Congress candidate from Vadakara. He continued to represent this constituency in 1977, 1980, 1984, 1989, and 1991.

From 1981 to 1984, he served as the leader of the Congress (Secular) in Parliament and was a member of the Public Accounts Committee from 1980 to 1982. A close associate of VK Krishna Menon, Unnikrishnan was once a trusted confidant of Indira Gandhi but later left the Congress due to political differences.

Return to Politics and Legacy

He remained active in Congress (U) and Congress (S) before returning to the Congress party in 1995. Born on September 20, 1936, he completed his education at Madras Christian College in Chennai, where he also earned his law degree. During this time, he was involved with the Socialist Party and later the Praja Socialist Party. He joined the Indian National Congress in the 1960s and became a member of the All India Congress Committee in 1962.