K. Radhakrishnan, a seasoned Indian politician affiliated with the Communist Party of India (Marxist), has had a distinguished career in public service and politics. Here’s a detailed overview of his career:
Early Political Involvement
Students’ Federation of India (SFI): Radhakrishnan’s political journey began during his student years with active involvement in the SFI. He held various significant roles, including Unit Secretary of Sree Kerala Varma College and member of the Thrissur District Secretariat.
Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI): He served as Secretary of the DYFI Chelakkara Block Committee and was a member of the DYFI State Committee. Additionally, he was the National President of the Dalit Soshan Mukti Manch (D.S.M.M.) and held leadership positions in other unions related to agricultural and industrial workers.
Legislative Career
First Election Win (1996): Radhakrishnan was elected to the Kerala Legislative Assembly from the Chelakkara constituency in 1996. He defeated the Indian National Congress (INC) candidate T. A. Radhakrishnan by 2323 votes. He served as the Minister for the Welfare of Backward and Scheduled Communities and Youth Affairs in the E. K. Nayanar government from 1996 to 2001.
Subsequent Election Wins:
2001: Re-elected from Chelakkara, defeating INC candidate K. A. Thulasi by 1475 votes.
2006: Re-elected, defeating INC candidate P. C. Manikandan by 14,629 votes. During this term, he served as the Speaker of the Kerala Legislative Assembly from 2006 to 2011.
2011: Re-elected, defeating INC candidate K. B. Sasikumar by 24,676 votes.
2021: Re-elected, defeating INC candidate C. C. Sreekumar by 44,015 votes.
Ministerial Roles
Current Ministry (2021-Present): In the second Pinarayi Vijayan ministry, Radhakrishnan was appointed as the Minister for SC/ST Welfare and Temple Administration.
Key Contributions and Controversies
Advocacy for Marginalized Communities: Radhakrishnan is known for his strong advocacy for the rights of marginalized communities, particularly the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
Caste Discrimination Incident (2023): In January 2023, he faced an incident of alleged caste discrimination during a temple ceremony, which led to significant public outrage and media coverage. The controversy highlighted ongoing issues of caste discrimination in India.
Legal Issues: Radhakrishnan has faced legal challenges, including being booked for unlawful assembly and rioting, and being scrutinized for revealing the name of a rape victim in a high-profile case.
