Salem: In a tragic incident, ruling DMK functionary and former MLA Veerapandi Raja died on the day of his birthday following a cardiac arrest on Saturday morning.
Police sources said, the former Veerapandi MLA, who is also the son of late DMK Salem strongman and former Minister Veerapandi S Arumugahm, was readying himself for the birthday fete when he suffered a massive cardiac arrest and collapsed.
He was rushed to a hospital, where he was declared brought dead. Raja was one of the ruling DMK’s election committee members.
Scores of DMK cadres thronged his residence and paid their last respects.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK President M K Stalin condoled the death of Raja.
In his condolence message, Stalin recalled his meeting with him two days back during his visit to Salem and said he could not forget his smiling face.
He said Raja had held various posts at the party and offered his condolences to the bereaved family members.
