Veteran CPI Leader R. Nallakannu Passes Away at 100
Chennai, Tamil Nadu – R. Nallakannu, a prominent figure in Indian politics and a veteran leader of the Communist Party of India (CPI), died in Chennai on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at the age of 100. He passed away at 1:55 p.m. At Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital, following a period of illness and age-related health complications.
A Life Dedicated to Communism and Social Activism
Fondly known as ‘Comrade RNK’, Nallakannu was born on December 26, 1925, in Tiruvaikuntam, Tinnevely district, Madras Presidency, British India (now Thoothukudi district, Tamil Nadu, India). He was the sole surviving member of the Nellai Conspiracy Case. Throughout his long and distinguished career, Nallakannu remained a steadfast advocate for social justice and communist ideals.
Recent Health and Hospitalization
Nallakannu had been admitted to Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital on February 1, 2026. According to a statement released by the hospital superintendent, his condition fluctuated in the 24 hours prior to his death. Despite the efforts of a team of specialists, his organs ultimately failed.
Legacy and Final Wishes
Nallakannu is survived by his two daughters, Andal and Kasi Bharathi. As per his wishes, his body will be donated to Madras Medical College for medical research. Prior to donation, his body will be kept at the CPI’s State headquarters, ‘Balan Illam’ in T. Nagar, Chennai, for public homage from 5 p.m. On Wednesday, February 26, until 3 p.m. On Thursday, February 26. A procession will then take place before the donation.
Political Career Highlights
Nallakannu served as the State Secretary of the Communist Party of India of Tamil Nadu from March 7, 1992, to April 15, 2005, succeeding P. Manickam and later succeeded by Tha. Pandian. In 1999, he contested the Coimbatore Lok Sabha seat, securing 43.21% of the vote but was defeated by CP Radhakrishnan .
Legal Victories and Activism
Demonstrating his commitment to environmental protection, Nallakannu individually pursued a legal case in Madurai in 2018, successfully securing a ban on sand mining from the Thamirabarani River. The Madurai High Court had initially banned sand mining from the river for five years on December 2, 2010. He was also known for undertaking numerous hunger strikes, some lasting over 20 days.
Recognition and Honors
Nallakannu was honored by the Vice President of the People’s Republic of China during a visit to Beijing. In 2022, he was awarded the ‘Thagaisal Thamizhar’ award by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, donating the award’s cash component of ₹10 lakh to the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister’s Public Relief Fund, along with an additional contribution of ₹5,000.
State Mourning
CPI State secretary M. Veerapandian announced that CPI flags across Tamil Nadu will fly at half-mast for a week as a mark of respect to the departed leader.