CPI(M)’s ‘living martyr’ Pushpan dies after almost three decades of paralysis

Pushpan, the CPI(M)’s ‘living martyr’ of the infamous Koothuparamba police firing of 1994, passed away at 54. He died in a private hospital in Kozhikode, where he had been receiving treatment for the past few days.

For nearly three decades, Pushpan was bedridden, having sustained a spinal injury during the police firing on November 25, 1994. He was part of a protest organised by the Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) against the privatisation of education in Kerala. His name now joins the five martyrs who lost their lives that day.

Pinarayi pays tribute

"Every communist heart, once filled with pride at his name, is now overcome with sorrow. A memorable chapter in the party's history burns within us, ignited by the comrade. He never regretted the tragedy he endured, driven not by selfish desires but by the courage to sacrifice himself for the country and his steadfast communist convictions. It was an extraordinary turning point for the party," said Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in his condolence message.

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The Koothuparamba firing is a stark reminder in Kerala’s political history of state violence against dissent. DYFI activists were protesting against the United Democratic Front (UDF) government’s education policies, particularly against M.V. Raghavan, a former CPI(M) leader and minister responsible for starting a self-financing medical college in Pariyaram. When activists blocked Raghavan’s vehicle, the police responded with gunfire to disperse the crowd.

Symbol of resilience

Five DYFI activists — K.K. Rajeevan, K.V. Roshan, V. Madhu, Shibulal, and K. Babu — were killed, and many others were injured in what the CPI(M) labelled as an unprovoked attack. Pushpan was among those grievously wounded, left paralysed by a bullet to the spine. Despite his condition, he remained a symbol of resilience, advocating for justice and equality and embodying the spirit of resistance.

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Throughout his bedridden life, Pushpan became a "living martyr," a term deeply resonant in Kerala’s political sphere. His unwavering smile and indomitable spirit inspired many. Friends and activists pointed out that, despite immense pain, he never showed despair. His belief that "death is better than being unable to raise even a single slogan for those denied justice" captured his deep commitment. The DYFI and CPI(M) supported him during his long struggle for medical treatment. His plight stood as a resilient symbol of the broader struggle against state-sponsored violence.

Deep scar

The Koothuparamba firing left a deep scar on Kerala's socio-political landscape. The incident led to widespread protests and demands for justice. However, as political dynamics shifted, the CPI(M), once devoted to anti-privatisation — began embracing similar policies when it returned to power. This tectonic shift drew criticism from some former comrades, but Pushpan remained loyal to the party’s original ideals until his death.

Pushpan’s legacy will continue to inspire generations. More than a victim, the staunch communist stood as a beacon of hope for those fighting for change in the system.