Rahul Gandhi to Receive First Oommen Chandy Public Servant Award

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 22nd July. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has been selected for the first Oommen Chandy Public Servant Award, instituted in memory of the late party veteran and former Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy. The Oommen Chandy Foundation announced the award on Sunday, three days after the first death anniversary of the revered leader.

The award includes a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh and a sculpture designed by renowned artist and filmmaker Nemom Pushparaj. The foundation’s statement highlighted Gandhi’s national leadership and his efforts to address people’s issues through initiatives like the Bharat Jodo Yatra. The awardee was chosen by an expert jury chaired by Shashi Tharoor, MP.

Kerala CM Remembers Oommen Chandy as a Tireless Public Servant

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan paid a heartfelt tribute to his predecessor, Oommen Chandy, at an event on July 19, describing his life as synonymous with tirelessness. Vijayan, reflecting on Chandy’s enduring legacy, said, “Even when he was on the opposite side politically, his personality of supporting creative proposals is a model for all.”

Vijayan praised Chandy’s deep connection with Kerala, especially his constituency Puthuppally, which he represented with unwavering dedication. Recalling their professional relationship, Vijayan noted that Chandy was the first person he met upon becoming chief minister in 2016.

“Public service was integral to his life. His tireless work reminded me of the Malayalam translation of Robert Frost’s poem ‘Miles to go before I sleep’ by noted poet Kadamanitta, which seemed to reflect Chandy’s ethos,” Vijayan remarked.

The Chief Minister also recalled the unity shown by Kerala during the 2004 tsunami under Chandy’s leadership, emphasizing the need for continued solidarity in the face of future challenges.

On July 18, cutting across political lines, people from all walks of life gathered at Puthuppally in Kottayam district to pay tribute to Oommen Chandy on his first death anniversary, celebrating his remarkable contributions to the state and the nation.