Senior Communist leader Nallakannu (1925–2026) passed away at the age of 101, marking the end of a political life that stood as a rare testament to integrity, simplicity and unwavering public commitment. His demise has evoked deep sorrow across political circles and among ordinary citizens who saw in him the moral compass of a different era.

A freedom fighter at heart, Nallakannu joined the ‘Quit India’ movement at the age of 18 and endured imprisonment during the struggle against British rule. For him, politics was never a career; it was a calling rooted in sacrifice and service. His early brush with incarceration shaped a lifelong commitment to social justice and people’s rights.

One of the defining episodes of his life came during the Nellai conspiracy case, when he was subjected to custodial torture and his moustache was forcibly plucked by the police. In response, he took a solemn vow that he would not grow his moustache again until justice was secured for the people. He remained true to that pledge for the rest of his life — a quiet yet powerful reminder that for him, resistance was personal and principled.

Despite holding key responsibilities in the Communist movement over decades, Nallakannu lived with striking modesty. He continued to reside in a rented house, travelled by public bus and shunned material comfort. Prize money and financial awards running into lakhs of rupees were donated entirely for public causes. In an age when public life is often scrutinised for excess, his record remained unblemished through nearly eight decades of activism.

Even after crossing 100, he stood firmly with people’s movements — from protecting the Thamirabarani river to opposing illegal sand mining. Age may have slowed his body, but it never dimmed his resolve.

Nallakannu did not merely preach values; he embodied them. His life offers a compelling answer to what ethical public service can look like. With his passing, Indian politics has lost not just a veteran leader, but a towering example of principled living.