CPI(ML) Liberation pays its revolutionary salute to Comrade R. Nallakannu, a veteran of the Indian communist movement who was born at its very inception and passed away at a time when the movement marks the completion of its centenary. A senior leader of the Communist Party of India, Comrade Nallakannu died on February 25, at the age of 101.

Comrade R. Nallakannu was a freedom fighter who struggled for India’s independence, standing steadfastly against British colonial rule and facing repression and imprisonment without fear. He joined the CPI and devoted his entire life to the communist movement as a committed fighter for socialism. Beginning his political life in the underground, and later facing conspiracy cases and repeated imprisonments, he played a historic role in building and strengthening the Communist Party of India in Tamil Nadu. From leading struggles of agricultural labourers to championing environmental protection and fighting against sand and mineral plunder, he acted with courage and determination.

Affectionately known as RNK within CPI circles, Comrade R. Nallakannu was a respected leader not only within the Left movement but also in the wider public sphere. Red Salute to Comrade RNK.