Chennai: Former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK stalwart M Karunanidhi is no more, Kauvery Hospital announced on Tuesday evening.
“With deep anguish, we announce the demise of our beloved Kalaignar M Karunanidhi at 6.20 pm,” a hospital statement said.
“Despite the best possible efforts by a team of doctors and nurses to resuscitate him, he failed to respond.”
Karunanidhi, 94, was admitted to the hospital on July 28 and his condition worsened on Monday.
Hundreds of DMK workers started marching towards the Kauvery hospital in Alwarpet in the heart of the city as news of deterioration of Karunanidhi’s health broke out in the evening. Traffic in various parts of the city was paralysed.
DMK General Secretary K Anbalagan, Karunanidhi’s family members and other leaders rushed to the hospital.
Police deployment was also stepped up to keep the situation under control.
Describing former Tamil Nadhu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi as a doyen of public life, President Ram Nath Kovind on Tuesday expressed grief over his death, saying the country is poorer today.
“Extremely sad to learn of the passing away of M Karunanidhi. A doyen of our public life, as a contributor to the development of Tamil Nadu and of India, he has few peers. Our country is poorer today. My condolences to his family and millions of well-wishers,” Kovind tweeted.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his anguish over the death of DMK President M Karunanidhi.
In a series of tweets, Modi said: “Deeply saddened by the passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi. He was one of the senior most leaders of India.
“We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalized.
“Kalaignar Karunanidhi stood for regional aspirations as well as national progress. He was steadfastly committed to the welfare of Tamils and ensured that Tamil Nadu’s voice was effectively heard,” Modi said.
Modi said he had the opportunity of interacting with Karunanidhi on several occasions. “His understanding of policy and emphasis on social welfare stood out. Firmly committed to democratic ideals, his strong opposition to the Emergency will always be remembered.”