Born on July 15, 1927, C.H. Muhammad Koya remains an indelible figure in Kerala’s socio-political history. A visionary leader, he held pivotal roles including Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, and Speaker of the Kerala Legislative Assembly, leaving an enduring imprint on the state’s governance.
His political journey began as Education Minister in E.M.S. Namboodiripad’s government, where he spearheaded transformative reforms. Under his stewardship, landmark institutions like the University of Calicut and Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) were established. Koya revolutionized Kerala’s education system by abolishing the punitive college detention system, instituting free high school education, and mandating student representation in key bodies like the Senate, Syndicate, and Academic Council. His groundbreaking policy of direct salary payments to lecturers in private colleges ensured accountability and equity.
In October 1979, Koya scripted history by becoming Kerala’s first and only Muslim Chief Minister, a testament to his inclusive leadership. Beyond governance, he was a prolific writer, penning eight insightful works that blended wit with wisdom. Titles like My Haj Pilgrimage, The Malaysia I Saw, and How Legislative Assembly Works revealed his global perspective and humor, even as he navigated complex political landscapes.
A lifelong advocate for education and communal harmony, Koya’s legacy is encapsulated in his words:
“As a Muslim, I will not let my community falter. I shall neither encroach upon the rights of others nor compromise the rights of my own community, however small they may be.”
His unwavering dedication to uplifting marginalized groups, particularly through educational empowerment, cemented his place as a beloved leader. Today, Kerala remembers him not just as a statesman but as a beacon of integrity, whose reforms continue to shape generations. C.H. Muhammad Koya’s life remains a testament to the power of education, empathy, and equitable leadership.