CHENNAI: N Pugazhenthi MLA of the ruling DMK passed away at a Government hospital on Saturday after a brief illness. He was 71.

The MLA, elected to the Assembly from Vikravandi constituency in Villuppuram, died at the Govt Villupuram Medical College and Hospital in Mundiyambakkam, where he was admitted.

Pugazhenthi, who was DMK south district secretary, is survived by his wife, son and three daughters.

A native of Athiyur Thiruvadi near Sankarapuram, Pugazhenthi was a member of the DMK for more than five decades and had served the district unit of the party in various capacities.

Governor RN Ravi and Chief Minister Stalin condoled his death.

“Pugazhenthi came to participate in my election campaign meeting on Friday and complained of dizziness. He was taken to the hospital. I also spoke to the doctors and asked them to take care of his health, Stalin said.