Kannur: It has been over a year since the demise of the former CPM stalwart, Kodiyeri Balakrishnan. 

It is a matter up for debate whether the void created by his absence within the CPM, particularly in the role of an adept state secretary, has been adequately addressed.

Even during the final days, Kodiyeri fulfilled his duties as the party secretary, even attending a press conference on August 12, 2022, barely weeks before he succumbed to his illness. Nevertheless, he refrained from expressing any grievances or allowing his deteriorating health to overcome him. 

Considering Kodiyeri's health condition, the Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, proposed the issuance of press releases to the media instead of press conferences. The move aimed at easing the burden on Kodiyeri. "However, Kodiyeri stated he has no issues and let's have press conference itself," remembered CPM veteran AK Balan.

Meanwhile, in a touching homage to Kodiyeri's wife Vinodini has set up a memorial named 'Vinodini’s Kodiyeri Family Collective' on the top floor of their residence. This has been inaugurated, and CPM state secretary M.V. Govindan unveiled a sculpture of the late leader in Kannur's Payyambalam. The memorial designed by sculptor Unni Kanayi is installed between the memorial structures of later CPM leaders E.K. Nayanar and Chadayan Govindan.