Prominent Figures of the Kerala Church-106
K. J. Chacko Kallukulam
Former Minister
K. J. Chacko Kallukulam is a leader who imparted new lessons to the political sphere through his exemplary political life. Known as a prominent lawyer, city father, MLA, and minister, the image of K. J. Chacko remains firmly etched in the hearts of the people of Changanassery. Over his long political career, K. J. Chacko was not driven by personal gains but was instead honored by the people through positions of responsibility. The people of Changanassery fondly referred to him as Chackochi, a nickname that reflected their affection for him. His contributions to the development of Changanassery, especially for the welfare of the community, are countless. Even today, he stands among the people as a solution provider for many unresolved political issues. Always outspoken against the decline in values within the political sphere, K. J. Chacko continues to raise his voice for the greater good of the land. Despite often speaking quietly, his words reflect wisdom and vision, making him a beloved leader and a torchbearer of a great political legacy.
This excerpt was written about K. J. Chacko in the Catholic Voice published in Changanassery on August 30, 1995.
Born on March 2, 1930, to Joseph and Eliamma of the prominent Kallukulam family in Changanassery, K. J. Chacko pursued his studies at Changanassery S.B. College, earning a B.A., and later a law degree from Ernakulam Law College. He was an exceptionally brilliant student. In 1962, he was elected as a municipal councillor of Changanassery and, in 1964, became the chairman of the Changanassery Municipal Council. He gained widespread recognition as a distinguished lawyer. Throughout his career, K. J. Chacko became a model of discipline and integrity in the field of justice. As a municipal leader, he initiated several developmental projects that added value to the cultural heritage of the region. His actions in resolving the Peral incident and ensuring religious harmony in Changanassery will never be forgotten.
In 1965, K. J. Chacko joined the Kerala Congress, a party formed that year, and won a resounding victory in the legislative elections held the same year. He continued to win in the 1970 and 1977 elections as well. In 1979, he was included in the cabinet formed by C.H. Mohammed Koya, and he handled the Revenue, Transport, and Excise portfolios. He became a shining example of truthfulness and fought against corruption in the assembly.
Chacko served on several important legislative committees, including as the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, Member of the Assurance Committee, and Chairman of the Perisher Committee.
As an elected representative, he worked tirelessly for the overall progress of Changanassery. He was instrumental in many developmental projects, such as the construction of the North Kekkara Bridge connecting Changanassery and Vazhappally Panchayat, the Kannamperoor Chirachethipuzha Road, Mundupalam on the Thrikodithanam Road, Changanassery Fire Station, the expansion of the Transport Bus Stand, the construction of new wards in the Government Hospital, reconstruction of the Boat Jetty, new water supply schemes, Women’s Hostel in Perunna, and numerous other infrastructure projects aimed at the welfare of the community.
Many prominent politicians often use their community’s name to gain popularity. However, it is common for them to conveniently forget community issues once in power. But K. J. Chacko stands apart from such individuals. He consistently advocated for the greater good, especially for the community’s long-term welfare. He had been requesting for July 3, the death anniversary of Kerala Catholic leader Mar Thoma Sleehaya, to be declared a public holiday in the state. Despite repeated petitions from community leaders and organizations like the Kerala Catholic Congress, no political leader took any significant interest in this cause—until K. J. Chacko took it upon himself. In 1979, he courageously declared Maundy Thursday as a public holiday, a move that no other leader had dared to make. This act was a significant step in maintaining the religious and cultural values of the people.
Chacko served on the board of directors of the Vazhappally Service Co-operative Bank from 1962 and as its president from 1984. Under his leadership, the bank became one of the most prominent institutions in Kottayam district, receiving several government awards for its performance.
Chacko also contributed to the Changanassery Archdiocese Pastoral Council and served as the leader of the Metropolitan Church for a long time. However, he never sought to boast about his achievements or gain popularity from them. His political career is a testament to his commitment to an honest, corruption-free society, and he remains an inspiration for future generations.
In recognition of his outstanding service in politics, society, and the cooperative sector, Chacko received several awards, including the AKCC Changanassery Archdiocese Excellence Award in 1995, the Kottayam News Millennium Excellence Award in 2000, and the Changanassery Merchant Association Award in 2002.
Chacko’s wife, a retired high school teacher, hails from the Cherthala Thaikattu Sherry Parampathara family.