KK Kochu's passing marks the loss of a dedicated advocate for Dalit rights and a profound voice in Kerala's literary and social landscape.
Published Mar 13, 2025 | 2:23 PM ⚊ Updated Mar 13, 2025 | 3:53 PM
Dalit activist and writer KK Kochu. (Supplied)
Synopsis: KK Kochu, a prominent Dalit thinker, writer, and activist from Kerala, passed away on March 13, 2025, at 76. Known for his advocacy for Dalit rights, Kochu’s contributions include his literary works and activism in organizations like SEEDIAN. He criticized CPI(M)’s land reforms for overlooking Dalit agricultural laborers and received the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award in 2020.
KK Kochu, a distinguished Dalit thinker, writer, and social activist from Kerala, passed away on Thursday, 13 March, at the age of 76, while undergoing treatment at Kottayam Government Medical College Hospital.
Born on 2 February 1949, in Kallara, Kottayam district, Kochu dedicated his life to advocating for the rights of Dalits and the underprivileged in Kerala and across India.
Kochu’s journey of activism began during his student years at Kallara NSS High School and Maharaja’s College, Ernakulam. His involvement in political movements led to a 16-day imprisonment.
During the Emergency period (1975-77), he spent six months in hiding due to his political activities. Kochu also played a pivotal role in establishing organizations such as the Communist Youth Forum, the People’s Workers’ Union, and the Human Rights Committee.
He joined the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) as a clerk in 1977 and retired as a senior assistant in 2001.
In 1986, he became a central committee member of SEEDIAN (Socially Economically Educationally Depressed Indian Ancient Natives)— formed by the combined efforts of the educated Dalits in Kerala— and served as the editor of its weekly publication.
The cover page of ‘Dalithan’. (Supplied)
Kochu’s literary career commenced in 1971 when he secured the second prize in a drama competition organized by Mathrubhumi Weekly for college students.
His notable works include Budhanilekkulla Dhooram, Deshiyathakkoru Charithrapadam, Keralacharithravum Samooharoopeekaranavum, Idathupakshammillatha Kalam, Dalit Padam, and Kalapavum Samskaravum.
His autobiography, Dalithan, published in 2019, offers profound insights into his childhood in the flood-prone region of Madhuraveli, Kottayam, and is considered a significant contribution to Dalit literature.
Kochu was a staunch critic of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)], highlighting that while Dalits constituted a substantial portion of the CPI(M)’s base, the party’s land reform initiatives in the 1950s and 60s primarily benefited small farmers and peasants, often overlooking Dalit agricultural labourers who lacked land ownership.
This oversight led to independent Dalit-led land struggles in the 1990s, such as the Muthanga and Chengara agitations, which lacked support from major political parties.
In recognition of his extensive contributions to literature, Kochu was honoured with the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award for Overall Contributions in 2020.
His passing marks the loss of a dedicated advocate for Dalit rights and a profound voice in Kerala’s literary and social landscape.
In a condolence message, CPI(M) state secretary MV Govindan remembered that KK Kochu was an esteemed activist, writer, and thinker whose relentless dedication to the Dalit community has left an indelible mark on our society.
“His profound writings and tireless efforts have been instrumental in illuminating the struggles and championing the rights of Dalits across the nation. In this moment of sorrow, we stand in solidarity with his family, friends, and colleagues, sharing their profound grief,” said Govindan.
Leader of the Opposition V D Satheesan speaking of the writer said, “KK Kochu was a revolutionary who dedicated his life to the relentless fight for Dalit rights and the upliftment of the underprivileged. He was not just a thinker, writer, and social activist—he was a beacon of hope for the marginalized, a voice that never wavered in the face of injustice. His contributions to championing the rights of his community are invaluable, and his legacy must not fade.”
The LoP further urged that the autobiography of KK Kochu, should be made a subject of study, ensuring that future generations understand his struggles and aspirations.
“On a personal level, KK Kochu was more than just a mentor; he was a guiding force who shaped my perspectives and political convictions. His passing is not just a loss to society but a profound personal grief—like losing a brother. I stand with his family, friends, and colleagues in mourning this irreplaceable loss. His fight, his dreams, and his ideals will continue to inspire us,” he added.
(Edited by Sumavarsha)
