‘Century of Courage and Sacrifice’: M A Baby Pays Tribute to Comrade R Nallakannu

CPI(M) General Secretary MA Baby condoled the passing of veteran communist leader Comrade R Nallakannu, describing him as the last link to the generation of leaders who started the fight against British colonial rule.

In his note, MA Baby highlighted Comrade Nallakannu’s century-long life of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to workers, farmers, agricultural labourers, and marginalized communities. “He challenged authority and fought for justice both in the streets and in courts. Even during imprisonment, he led the fight for the rights of his fellow prisoners,” MA Baby said.

He added that RNK will remain an enduring inspiration for ongoing fights and shared his condolences with the family and comrades of the veteran leader via X.

Comrade R Nallakannu passed away at the age of 101 while receiving treatment at a hospital in Chennai. He had been undergoing medical care since February 1 due to infection and kidney-related ailments. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin had visited him at the hospital recently.

Nallakannu joined the Communist Party at the age of 15 and served as the CPI Tamil Nadu State Secretary for 13 years. Born in Sree Vaikundham, Thoothukudi, he played a key role in strengthening peasant movements in Tamil Nadu. Known for his simple lifestyle, he remained steadfast in his commitment to anti-caste struggles and social justice, dedicating more than eight decades of his life to the communist movement.