Vikravandi DMK MLA Pugazhenthi dies; Stalin, Governor express condolences
N. Pugazhenthi, 71, DMK MLA from Vikravandi in Villupuram, died after a brief illness on Saturday morning. He swooned on the stage at a public meeting on Friday and was rushed to the Government Villupuram Medical College and Hospital where he breathed his last.
He was the DMK’s Villupuram South district secretary.
He is survived by his wife, son and three daughters. Sources said Pugazhenthi was suffering from an ailment and admitted to a private hospital in Chennai a few days ago. He was discharged on Friday and attended a public meeting addressed by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin at Vikravandi in the evening.
However, his health condition worsened in the night and he was treated at the Government Villupuram Medical College and Hospital.
Hailing from Athiyur Thiruvadi near Sankarapuram, Pugazhenthi started his political career in 1973 and served in various positions in the DMK’s Villupuram district unit. He unsuccessfully contested in the 2019 byelection to Vikravandi, losing to Muthamizhselvan of the AIADMK by 44,924 votes. In the 2021 election though, he wrested the seat from the AIADMK.
Stalin pained
Chief Minister and DMK president M.K. Stalin condoled the death of Pugazhenthi. In a statement, he expressed shock and pain over the death. Despite his health issues, Pugazhenthi was involved in election work.
“Pugazhenthi came to participate in my campaign meeting on Friday and complained of dizziness and was taken to hospital. We were hoping that he would recover. But the news of his death has caused deep grief,” he said.
In his message, Governor R.N. Ravi said, “Deeply saddened on the passing away of Pugazhenthi. His contributions in public life will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his grieving family. Om Shanti!”.