P. M. Audikesavalu Naicker

Sardar P. M. Audikesavalu Naicker (9 September 1898 – 9 September 1964) was an Indian freedom fighter, and legislator active in the Madras Presidency during the Indian independence movement.

Early life P. M. Audikesavalu Naicker was born on 9 September 1898 in Korukkupet, Madras (now Chennai). His grandfather, Krishnaswamy Naicker, was a shell lime merchant who had migrated from Pondicherry to Madras due to unrest under French colonial rule. The family established itself in Korukkupet, where Audikesavalu grew up as the third of five sons. Naicker received his early education locally and later attended Madras Christian College.

Labour movement Naicker's involvement in the labour movement began in 1916 when he founded and became the president of the Madras & Southern Mahratta Railway Young Men's Trade Union. He also organized and led several other unions, including the Massey & Company Employees’ Union and the Madras Kerosene Oil Workers’ Union.

Naicker was also involved with major trade unions such as the Madras Labour Union (established in 1918), considered one of the earliest trade unions in India, and other unions in industries such as tramways, public works, and manufacturing. During the Civil Disobedience Movement and the Salt Satyagraha in the 1930s, Naicker faced imprisonment for his involvement in satyagraha demonstrations. He represented North Madras in the Madras Legislative Assembly from 1937 to 1939.

Death He died on 9 September 1964.