About Me

Profile Summary

In the picturesque village of Chennithala, in May 1956, a significant journey began with the birth of a son to Shri. Ramakrishnan Nair and Smt. Devakiamma. Little did they know that this young boy would go on to become a role model for many in Kerala.

Even during his school days, Ramesh Chennithala had felt a strong desire to make a positive impact, and his journey into politics started from there. With time, his passion for helping others and working for the community grew stronger. It was the Kerala Students Union (KSU) and Ramesh Chennithala that played a significant role in introducing and implementing the “Onathinu Oru Para Nellu” initiative, which marked the beginning of Chennithala’s political journey.

Advancing in his political journey, he reached remarkable heights, earning distinction as Kerala's youngest Cabinet Minister—a record untouched till today. Guided by the esteemed (Late) K. Karunakaran, he assumed crucial party roles and actively contributed to committees focused on public welfare.

Chennithala has taken on leadership of every nature—be it KSU state and national levels, IYC state and national roles, KPCC presidency, with the AICC presidency being a forthcoming step. His experience is a mosaic of diverse responsibilities, solidifying his reputation as a thoughtful and decisive leader.

Throughout his journey, he has remained dedicated to serving the people and working for their betterment.

In 1982 and 1987, he earned his place in the Kerala Legislative Assembly (K.L.A.), then, as a Member of Parliament (MP) in 1989, 1992, 1996, and 1999, and later as an MLA in 2011, 2016, and 2021. He continued to lead with unwavering dedication, his journey marked by numerous victories and he stands as a living tale of inspiration, casting a profound influence on the lives he touches.

Personal life

Ramesh Chennithala, a native of Chennithala, Mavelikara in Kerala, India, was born on 25th May, 1956 to V. Ramakrishnan Nair and Devakiamma. He pursued a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Economics and also completed his Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.).

He is happily married to Anitha, and they are blessed with two sons. Their elder son, Rohit Chennithala, chose a career in medicine and became a Radiologist. Their younger son, Ramit Chennithala, achieved an impressive feat by securing the 210th AIR rank in the Civil Services Examination 2017 and currently serves in the Indian Revenue Service.

Political career

Ramesh Chennithala's journey into politics began during his early school days. He started as Unit president of KSU in Mavelikara and rose through the ranks in the Kerala Students Union (KSU), holding various leadership roles.

In 1982, he was elected as an MLA from Haripad Constituency, and at the young age of 28, he became the Minister for Rural Development in the Ministry of K. Karunakaran. His commitment to integrity and efficiency was acknowledged by prominent figures, including K.R. Gowriamma of CPM, who praised his incorruptibility and impactful leadership.

Over the years, he showcased his oratory prowess, receiving praise for his fiery speeches in Hindi and English during his tenure as a Member of Parliament. He held significant positions within the Indian National Congress, including the Congress Working Committee (CWC). He was lauded by Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and George Fernades for his Hindi speeches in parliament.

His dedication to public service led him to initiate notable projects like “Operation Kubera” to curb illegal money lending as well as the “Clean Campus Safe Campus” to combat drug usage on college campuses.

Throughout his journey, Chennithala has been a vocal advocate for various causes, including expressing his support for marginalized communities and his views on the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). He continues to be an active leader, fighting for a common cause that resonates with the people.

Government Departments

A trailblazer from the start, Chennithala made history as the youngest minister in the state, serving as the Minister of Rural Development in the 3rd K. Karunakaran ministry from 1986 to 1987.

His political journey then led him to become a long-serving Member of Parliament. In 2005, he returned to state politics and took charge as the President of the state Congress Party.

His unwavering commitment to public service earned him the role of the Minister of Home Affairs in the Second Oommen Chandy ministry from 2014 to 2016.

Following the 2016 Kerala election, he took on the mantle of the Leader of the Opposition, passionately representing the voices of the people. A seasoned leader with an indomitable spirit, Chennithala continues to make his mark in the political landscape of Kerala and India.

Leader of Opposition

Chennithala was chosen as the Leader of the Opposition of the Kerala Niyamasabha during a gathering of Congress leaders on May 29, 2016. Under his direction, the UDF won 19 out of 20 seats in Kerala, leading to a victory of the Congress in Kerala, in the 2019 Indian general election.

This was their largest triumph in Kerala since 1977. He was able to spearhead an anti-corruption campaign that lead the Pinarayi Govt to back off on multiple deals including Sprinkler Data Scam, Pamba River Sand Excavating Mafia Scam, E-mobility Bus Scam , Deep Sea Trollers Scam, Brewery Distillery Scam, BEVCO App Scam, Vazhiyora Visrama Kendra Scam, AI Camera Scam, University VC Scam against R Bindu.

Actions taken

In a bold move, Chennithala took the fight against corruption to the Anti-Corruption Court, raising concerns about Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Excise Minister T. P. Ramakrishnan's revision of the liquor policy in the state. However, the Supreme Court's ruling exempted gram panchayat areas with an urban nature from liquor prohibition, resulting in the reopening of all closed liquor outlets.

Undeterred, Chennithala stood firm, voicing his belief that the government misinterpreted the SC verdict. With unwavering determination, he continues to champion transparency and accountability, striving for justice and the welfare of the people he represents.

Awards

In 2014, Ramesh Chennithala received the prestigious P. V. Sankaranarayanan Memorial Award, in recognition of his outstanding contributions and dedication to public service. This accolade stands as a testament to his commitment and leadership in serving the people of Kerala. Through his unwavering efforts, Chennithala continues to leave a lasting impact and inspire others to follow in his footsteps, making a positive difference in the lives of many.

Ramesh Chennithala

Member of the Kerala Legislative Assembly

( Incumbent )

Leader of the Opposition in Kerala Niyamasabha

29 May 2016 – 20 May 2021

Constituency

Haripad

Minister of Home Affairs, Government of Kerala

1 January 2014 – 20 May 2016

Minister of Rural Development, Kerala

5 June 1986 – 25 March 1987

President of the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee

2005–2014

Member of Parliament for Kottayam

1989–1999

Member of Parliament for Mavelikara

1999–2004

Member of the Kerala Legislative Assembly

1982–1987

Personal details

Born : 25 May 1956 ( Age 67 ),
Mavelikkara, Travancore-Cochin, India

Spouse : Anita Ramesh ​(m. 1986)​

Parent(s) : V. Ramakrishnan Nair & Devaki Amma

Education: NSS Hindu College, Government Law College, Thiruvananthapuram