K Thangavelu, a Marxist leader and former MLA who cut his teeth as a banian mill worker and went on to spearhead many successful agitations for labour rights in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, died of COVID-19 in Coimbatore on September 13, 2020.
The 68-year-old party veteran and trade unionist, who was treated for coronavirus at a hospital for the past 14 days passed away early on Sunday, the CPM said. He is survived by his wife and two daughters.
A Marxist ideologue, he was renowned for his lectures on Marxism and leadership qualities and had been a state executive committee (known as state secretariat in the party) member for about 25 years.
Thangavelu started his life as a banian mill worker and he led many successful agitations for the labour rights of the mill workers.
During his stint in trade unions at various levels, he was instrumental in getting these mill workers various rights.
"As a leader, he left an indelible mark through his excellent work. He was simple, honest and calm," the party said in a statement paying rich tributes to him.
Elected as an MLA in 2011 from Tirupur South Constituency, he championed labour welfare in the Assembly and was close to the voters in his constituency.