Kozhikode: Congress has lost one of its significant Malabar faces, Aryadan Muhammed. He became Indian National Congress member in 1952 and rose up to become a notable leader with his reformist streak.  He handled portfolios like labour, forest, tourism, power, post and telegraphs as a minster in three terms and has seven decades of political experience. 

Aryadan Muhammed was known for his conviction and depth of knowledge in the matters he dealt with. Many a time, he  stunned opposition leaders with his stumping arguments.  Though IUML is UDF’s major ally, Aryadan was in the forefront to give constructive criticism to the party regardless of the reactions. 

He was able to taste victory in eight of the eleven MLA elections he contested in Nilambur constituency. It may be noted that his grassroot-level connections gained from the experience as KPCC president, DCC secretary and INTUC member contributed to his electoral victory. Apart from that he had been the president of various labour unions which put him close to the working class.