Wed Feb 25 10:40:00 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Veteran CPI Leader Nallakannu Passes Away at 101
The Story:
Nallakannu, a senior leader of the Communist Party of India (CPI), passed away today at the age of 101. Born in Srivaikuntam in 1924, Nallakannu was inspired by Subramania Bharati and V.O. Chidambaram Pillai, participating in various protests from a young age. His political journey began at 18 when he protested against hoarding rice sacks in his hometown, subsequently joining the CPI. He dedicated his life to advocating for the people.
Key Points:
- Nallakannu was born in 1924 in Srivaikuntam.
- He joined the CPI at the age of 18.
- He returned a crore of rupees given to him by the party back to the party for its development.
- He contested and lost the 1999 Coimbatore Lok Sabha election against C.P. Radhakrishnan.
- He served as the Tamil Nadu State Secretary of the CPI for 13 years.
- He served as the President of the Agricultural Laborers Union for 25 years.
- In 2022, he was awarded the ‘Thagai Sal Tamizhar’ award by the Tamil Nadu government.
- At the age of 93, he filed a case against illegal sand mining in the Thamirabarani River and obtained a ban.
- He donated the ₹10 lakh prize money from the ‘Thagai Sal Tamizhar’ award, along with an additional ₹5,000, to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund.
Key Takeaways:
- Nallakannu’s life exemplifies dedication to communist ideology and public service.
- His actions, such as returning funds and fighting against illegal sand mining, highlight his commitment to social justice and environmental protection.
- His long and active political career demonstrates his enduring influence within the CPI and the broader political landscape of Tamil Nadu.
First Piper 