CPI pays homage to veteran leader R. Nallakannu after his death
CPI pays homage to veteran leader R. Nallakannu after his death
Tamil Nadu's CPI mourns veteran leader RNK, recalling his years of service for social justice, with a procession planned for February 27.
R. Nallakannu, a towering figure in Tamil Nadu’s communist movement, died on February 25, 2026, in Chennai at the age of 101 after a prolonged illness. In Coimbatore, CPI cadre held a homage meeting led by district secretary C. Sivasamy, with participation from state treasurer M. Arumugam and CPI(M) district secretary C. Padmanaban. A procession is planned for February 27 to honor RNK’s decades of service and impact on the party and social justice.
RNK, affectionately known as Comrade RNK, served as the CPI State secretary in three tenures since 1992. His long life in politics was marked by a persistent focus on the oppressed and on building solidarity within Tamil Nadu’s left movement. Colleagues describe him as a principled leader who stood by ordinary people during difficult times and who urged the party to stay true to its socialist ideals.
Friends and followers remember his stamina and readiness to face police brutality in pursuit of justice, a badge he carried with quiet resolve rather than bravado. Across generations, RNK’s work is recalled as a bridge between old struggles and newer challenges, keeping the party rooted in social justice while pushing for reform and inclusivity.
As tributes pour in, attendees emphasize the need to carry forward RNK’s legacy. The life of this 101-year-old veteran is a reminder of persistent advocacy, patient organizing, and the belief that durable change comes from everyday commitment to those deprived of power.
