CHENNAI — Senior leader of the Communist Party of India (CPI), R. Nallakannu, died on Wednesday, february 25, 2026, in Chennai at the age of 101 after suffering from severe age‑related health complications. He passed away at Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital, where he had been treated under intensive care for several weeks.
Nallakannu was a towering figure in tamil Nadu’s leftist politics, known for his lifelong commitment to workers’ rights, agrarian reform, and social justice. He had joined the communist movement as a young man shortly after India’s independence and went on to serve in key leadership roles within the cpi, including as the party’s tamil Nadu State Secretary.
📜 A Life of Struggle, service and Simplicity
Born on December 26, 1925, in Srivaikundam in Thoothukudi district, Nallakannu’s activism began in his youth, and he fought for labour rights, farmers’ welfare, and equitable development throughout his long political career. Despite leading a public life spanning more than eight decades, he was widely respected for his personal simplicity and integrity.
Over the years, he opposed exploitative practices such as illegal sand mining and consistently raised his voice on behalf of marginalised communities. His passing has been described by many as the end of an era in left‑wing politics in tamil Nadu.
📣 Poet Vairamuthu’s Tribute on Social Media
Following news of Nallakannu’s death, renowned tamil poet and lyricist Vairamuthu shared a message of condolence on his social media account (X/Twitter), honouring the veteran leader’s contribution to indian society and politics. In his message, vairamuthu referred to Nallakannu’s life and struggle with deep respect, describing the Communist stalwart in poetic terms and lamenting the loss of a leader who dedicated his life to the people’s cause.
Though the full text of the tribute was posted on social platforms, Vairamuthu’s response reflects the broader cultural admiration for Nallakannu’s lifelong struggle and his role as a moral voice in modern tamil political life.
🤝 Reactions from Across the Political Spectrum
Political leaders and activists from various parties have expressed their condolences on Nallakannu’s passing. Many praised his integrity, commitment to social justice, and decades of leadership in the cpi and in the broader struggle for workers’ rights and equitable development.
His death has triggered heartfelt tributes not only from left‑wing organisations but also from leaders across the political spectrum, who acknowledged his contribution to public life and grassroots activism.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.
click and follow Indiaherald WhatsApp channel