Palakkad: Senior Congress functionary and former Chittur MLA K Achuthan died at a private hospital in Alathur on Monday. He was 76. He had been undergoing treatment for age-related ailments. Achuthan represented Chittur in the Keralam assembly for four consecutive terms from 1996 to 2011. He is also the father of current Chittur MLA Sumesh Achuthan.Achuthan began his public life through Kerala Students Union and later became active in the agricultural and cooperative sectors. He served as the president of the Thathamangalam Service Cooperative Bank and chairman of the Chittur-Thathamangalam municipality.Political functionaries recalled his strong connection with the people of Chittur and his influence within the party. Chief minister V D Satheesan condoled his death, recalling his contribution to the Congress organisation in Palakkad and the cooperative sector in Chittur.Opposition leader Pinarayi Vijayan also expressed condolences, describing Achuthan as a prominent farmer, cooperative worker and politician.Vadakara MP Shafi Parambil said Achuthan was among the few leaders who had wielded such influence among Congress workers. Revenue minister A P Anil Kumar described Achuthan as a leader with whom he shared a close relationship and said he was not someone who sought positions or honours.Minister P C Vishnunadh recalled his long association with Achuthan in the assembly and spoke about the affection he commanded among people in the constituency.Achuthan leaves behind his wife C K Sudha, son Sumesh Achuthan and daughter A Sheeba, a high court advocate.