A restless week has passed, marked by disturbed sleep. My mind has been preoccupied with the concerning developments at the central level and our apparent inability to forge a united front against the Postal Department's detrimental policies. I find myself constantly reflecting on the invaluable contributions of Comrade M. Krishnan, my dear comrade. I can't help but wonder: if he were still with us, would these challenges even exist? In remembrance of his leadership and impact, I share below an article I wrote shortly after his passing, hoping it will resonate with all of you,
A Floral Tribute to the Red Flower
Comrade M. Krishnan, the crusader, the red flower blossomed in Kerala, voicing the workers' will for over four decades. This eminent writer, statesman, philosopher, and unparalleled orator, my beloved friend and guide, has left us due to Covid-19, leaving a great and irreparable void, not only for us but also for the entire Central Government employees' movement, and especially for postal comrades.
A visionary leader, he always thought about the future, never interested in short-term gains or engaging in petty squabbles, even when subjected to betrayal by those he trusted. He overcame all such hurdles and, until his last breath, remained the greatest leader of the postal and Central Government employees' movement.
Comrade Krishnan, the think tank of the NFPE and the Confederation, was known for his sacrifice. During his stays in Delhi, we often worked through the night, sleeping less than four hours. He constantly devised programs and discussed them for the betterment of CG employees. He burned the midnight oil every day he was in Delhi, yet his face never showed any tiredness the following day, despite his lack of sleep. The countless nights we spent together planning for the movement cannot be measured. Our collaboration brought about a wonderful transformation in the postal Group C movement, leading to a complete change in its functioning.
The rosy days of his youth in Kasargode were entirely dedicated not only to postal employees but also to workers as a whole, and he stood as a true communist. He never led a pleasant or luxurious life but remained a symbol of simplicity and sacrifice.
During discussions with the Postal Board, his arguments were appreciated even by the officers. He was a skilled negotiator, knowing when to attack and when to concede. Many such incidents come to mind. For example, during discussions about the speed post hub, when we lacked valid points, we simply protested and walked out. That same night, we worked tirelessly to gather data from various circles and presented it effectively the next day, winning over the officers. Our partnership in the postal Group C movement addressed numerous pending issues, such as residual vacancies, the introduction of objective-type questions in departmental exams, cadre review, mass recruitment, and various orders on sectional issues. The list is countless.
Comrade Krishnan never compromised his high character in trade unionism. He championed the cause of GDS employees, and the case filed in the Supreme Court was solely due to his efforts. He gathered the necessary information and ensured the case was filed. He spearheaded the formation of the GDS union with class consciousness, standing firm until his last breath against the exploitation of GDS employees by the Postal Department. The GDS movement has truly lost a great guide and philosopher.
Comrade M. Krishnan's sharp, inspiring, educational, and enlightening writings in the journal and other articles opened new avenues for readers. His writing on NPS ignited passion in many, preparing them to fight against any program that did not demand its scrapping. He vigorously campaigned on this issue among young comrades. He introduced frequent national-level trade union classes and workshops, which were very popular at the time. The P3 workshop in Puri, Odisha, is a prime example.
His inherent qualities equipped his fellow workers with the substance and steadfastness to stand firm even in times of crisis. He was a trade union university in himself, with a radical outlook, a novel approach, and a commitment to workers' interests. He was a pleasant companion and a formidable comrade. I have lost my sole companion at the national level, and there is no solace, no replacement.
In the All India Conferences, whatever the crisis, he would handle everything as President and conclude the conference smoothly. We had many personal discussions, particularly about the activities of his "soft enemies" who were two-faced. He discussed various developments that hurt him, and at those times, I could only offer solace, while feeling frustrated with those individuals. As I write about him, memories bring tears to my eyes, and they are rolling down my cheeks. I cannot continue any further.
We have lost the greatest leader. Yet, he is in our hearts and lives forever. We must uphold the ideals of Comrade M. Krishnan and march forward against all exploitation, which is the only way to truly honour and remember him.
Long Live Comrade M. Krishnan!
Long live our seat of wisdom!
Long live our leader of faith and honesty!
Long live our alma mater of the rising generation!
Kayveeyes
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