W.R. Varada Rajan cremated

The body of CPI(M) leader W.R. Varada Rajan (WRV) was taken out in procession before it was cremated at the Kannamapet crematorium on Tuesday.

Senior party leaders, trade union leaders, leaders of various political parties and scores of CPI(M) cadre paid their homage to WRV at the party headquarters, where his body was kept.

Earlier in the day, party leaders received the body from the Government Royapettah Hospital and took it to WRV’s residence in Anna Nagar.

State secretary of the party G. Ramakrishnan said the wish of WRV — that his body should be donated for medical research — could not be fulfilled as it was not in a good condition.

“Twelve days have elapsed since it was fished out from the lake,” he said, explaining that the body would be cremated as per the wish of his family members.

Former State secretary N. Varadarajan said the party would learn lessons from the death of WRV.

“His death has come as a setback when the party imposed discipline in his last days,” Mr. Varadarajan told reporters at the party office.

Later, addressing a funeral meeting at the crematorium, Mr. Varadarajan said the party accorded various positions to WRV, in recognition of his talent and contribution, and he also lived up to the expectations.

Recalling his association with WRV, senior party leader N. Sankaraiah said strengthening the party in Tamil Nadu on a par with the party organisation in Left-ruling States alone would be a great tribute to the late leader.

Polit Bureau member K. Varadarajan said enemies who waited for an occasion to settle scores with the party used the death of WRV to achieve their goal.

CITU general secretary and WRV’s associate in trade union movement A. Soundararajan said when unions held talks with managements represented by highly qualified persons, WRV effectively argued the views of the workers.