19 March, 2024

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Did Tamils Always Paint Themselves Into A Corner?

By S. Sivathasan

S. Sivathasan

S. Sivathasan

A Harmful Outgrowth

If the answer is yes, for how long have we done so? For as long as eight decades and more, some would say. When did the painting start? With elections to the State Council in 1931 and the Jaffna Boycott. The initiative and organization were by the Youth Congress of Jaffna. The mindset which originated then evolved subsequently and has permeated Tamil consciousness ever since. Deriving greater strength   through surgical intervention to remove this malignant growth is good for future wellbeing. It did not fail to raise its plaintive head even as late as September 2013, at the Provincial Council Elections. We Tamils require a great deal of introspection to identify our repetitive ways and to wrest ourselves from the boycott mindset. Dispassionate analysis of the stands we have taken and the negative results we have obtained will have to go alongside.

Origin

Two strong factors fueled the boycott of the State Council elections. The abolition of communal representation which reduced the strength of Tamil membership in the Council compared to a might have been under the previous system of weighted representation had earned the ire of many a Tamil. In this receptive atmosphere the Youth Movement in Jaffna with an emergent leadership had a credible political complaint. The Donoughmore Reforms did not go far enough towards independence was their stance. Such a position certainly flowed from the reactions of the Indian National Congress to failed reform missions in their country.

Out of Sync

In India, ten years prior to Donoughmore Commission, was the Montagu Chelmsford Reforms which resulted in the Government of India Act of 1919, granting only partial self- government. To Indians who had agitated vigorously for full freedom it was a far cry from independence, dashing India’s expectations of purna swaraj. The Jaffna Youth Movement picked up its threads rather idealistically from India. How mighty was India’s fight for Independence? Around 1957, Nehru had said “Independence came too early for India. We did not fight for our freedom. We never had a ‘Long March’ as in China”. Did we Tamils fight prior to 1931 to deserve full independence and for the British to grant it with a mere boycott? In two years the un-wisdom of the step was realized and Tamils demanded elections and representation. Was it realistic pursuit of politics to permit this pervasive mindset to continue to date?

We failed to elect our representatives in 1931. There was however mid-course correction in 1934 and 4 members were elected in that year including GG Ponnambalam. Following on the second State Council election in 1936 was the formation of the Pan-Sinhalese Board of Ministers. Tamils as well as other minorities were excluded totally. Whether they wished a share in governance or wanted it or yearned for it is not clear. By bringing forth a Pan-Sinhalese entity to preside over the country’s governance, the majority community forfeited an opportunity to build bridges for national consolidation. The minorities got a credible handle to demand balanced representation and they got the ablest spokesman in GGP in 1938, to argue before Governor Caldecott. Yet the day was lost.

Whatever the thinking or the motivation of the Premier, his offer of two portfolios to Tamils at independence was not taken kindly to by the Tamils. All actions by the government since then proved the native intelligence of the Tamils to be correct. Then as well as now we Tamils stand at a dilemmatic position. No rational or sensible being can call their decisions wrong. Nor can one say there wasn’t any error on their part. It is not desired to touch on all points as the reading can be weary and turn morbid. Suffice to refer to a few.

Persisting Shadows

The July Elections of 1960, preceded by some understanding with the Tamil side was followed with a 10 member cabinet by Srimavo. From independence to that day the size of the Cabinet was maintained at 14 or 15. Who will say that the figure was now pegged at 10, because a 11th was not forthcoming? The obvious inference then and conclusion thereafter was that 4 berths were reserved for the Tamil side apparently for a fresh beginning. Response however was rejection which only connoted coming confrontation. The relations that followed are known well. The opportunity for Tamils to work from within was lost in favour of criticizing from without. It made good reading for plebians among Tamils. The Muslim Minister of Education laid the foundation for his community to reach great heights years later. The first 5 years 1960 – 65, were followed by the second spell 1970 – 77. The community was placed well on its way for a Himalayan ascent. Education with fingers on all relevant switches like school development, recruitment, promotions and scholarships, accomplished it. We Tamils continued to prepare our catalogue of complaints and polished up our litany of grievances.

The boycott mental frame crept into the North – East Provincial Council election of November 1988. The damage of the morning was undone from mid-noon and the situation was salvaged. An year of negative action with even threats of violence by the militant leadership put paid to even that. In the general elections that came soon after, ubiquitous Boycott made its presence felt and for once, members were elected to Parliament with 4 and 5 votes. Though we railed against them for being unrepresentative, they did their damage to the community. The last Boycott was the deadliest of all, ushering in a regime in 2005 placing the Tamils in an irretrievable ditch. The Boycott mentality stalked ever since, but strong TNA leadership thwarted its reentry at the Northern Provincial Council election of 2013.

Hard Headedness

Many and varied have been the ways in which we painted ourselves into an ever diminishing corner. In 1991 was an imprudent act which marked the beginning of the end of our political space. The world   saw its inevitable disappearance in 2009. Thiruvalluvar sanely advises, “Before venturing forth, factor into your calculations the value of allies”. The wisdom of consolidating strategic space was lost on the un-wisdom of impetuosity. History was blazoning to the world the wisdom of the Chinese Communists. In 1936, their most powerful adversary Chiang Kai Shek was caught by them. In the deliberations that followed immediately thereon, the leadership decided to release him. Consensual judgment demanded that for a continuing war, releasing him would expand their political and military space tactically and strategically. Chiang was released and the KMT at war with the communists for 8 years, continued to battle them for 14 more years. Communists were eventual victors. This was political sagacity.

After painting ourselves into a corner and having lost the remaining nook also five years back, where do we Tamils stand now? Virtually where we stood. Progress at Geneva and at Delhi certainly denote some advance. So do solid resistance in London, Washington, Toronto, New York, European capitals and Australian cities. The Diaspora is developing a persona and groping towards parallel platforms. Where change is desired most is in accepting the TNA as the legitimate political formation of the Tamils and their accredited spokesperson. The diaspora to operate in tandem with the TNA and the latter being assured of its primacy.

Fresh Beginning

For the above formulation to prevail in the country, to have acceptance abroad and for recognition in Delhi, much cerebral work is needed and it has to be made public. At 3 per lakh, around a hundred Tamils of standing should surface. TNA should perform midwifery to make this happen and acknowledge their credentials for public information. Today just 3 are in the public eye and in the forefront. SL Tamils speaking with one voice have to be at meaningful engagement with TN Tamils. All of them will have to develop integral thinking on political, economic, educational, developmental and investment issues. Are we anywhere there? Nowhere near is what I would assert. To quote a case in point, when agriculture is discussed, many and more so the young talk about primitive methods which lead only to subsistence agriculture to satisfy a self-sufficient village economy. The TNA has to take on the leadership role to reach for modern compulsions. What are they? Theorize, Organize, Lead. The 100 strong as the intellectual avant garde should be the buttress to the political leadership.

Education

As of now even as land expropriation looms large, other issues of concern should not go by default. The area that suffered most in the war is education. This sphere demands the greatest attention now. Denial of places well merited by the youth in the university system continues to vex them. At this point of time with goodwill developing among Tamils in SL and in TN, it must be turned to advantage in the education sector. For 42 years we have railed against marginalization with no positive good being done to the student community.

What was destroyed by state malevolence as also through societal negligence over decades would require as much time for rebuilding. What is paramount is to bring to life the structure of values which was the bed rock and sheet anchor of educational priority among most Tamils. It is not suggested that Tamils were or are unique among all people. There is a Tamil saying, “rectitude even in poverty”. Such a value certainly underpinned much of their thinking and approach on life a 100 years ago and later. A Tamil poetess said, “Learning is great even when driven to penury”. We see such effort now too.

Whatever be the goals targeted or objectives to be realized, what is to be marveled at locally and abroad is the unrelenting pursuit of academic achievement for professional excellence. What is more is that favourable results are scored more abroad than locally. Opportunities and the lack of them explain the variance. Quite a number of expatriates have ventured to narrow the deficit without any song or dance.

McNamara in his memoirs speaking about his primary school days in San Francisco, refers to the great effort of Indian and Chinese students sacrificing play for study over weekends. This was 90 years and more ago and yet persisting. Expatriate Tamils have been in this bandwagon for over 3 decades and outcomes are astonishing. “Those with eyes transfixed on their vocation, will not ever mind discomfort or treat hunger as of any consequence. Nor are they given to rest or sleep”. Even now the writer notes where he resides, Indian and Chinese children age 4 upwards being taken in overwhelming numbers to libraries by their parents. Back home parents have the same obligation. Time is plentiful if one takes President Obama’s simple homely advice “Parents should know when to stop the TV”. At age 9, his Father showed him when.

External Assistance

With this build up where do we go? As if by second nature, Tamils factored in mainly Tamil Nadu outside Ceylon for University education. A single university in Ceylon in the forties to sixties offered very limited places. With a sea change adversely affecting the ‘opportunity environment’ available to Tamil students, unprecedented, unconventional and extraordinary strategies are now needed. A very workable and potent programme is to lay a pipeline to Tamil Nadu to draw on their teaching resources. What prevents students of promise to get there on their own? Finances. Relentless disorder of the 30 year war has deprived the whole Tamil community of assets and surpluses. An immediate programme drawn up by some universities of Tamil Nadu to accommodate a few hundred students each year can set the education train moving again. To make it happen a little subsidy element may become necessary at the beginning. However small or simple a proposal it needs a push. If the Chief Minister and the Minister of Education of the Northern Provincial Council set about it, then it can find traction and reach its desired goal.

It has become necessary or even compulsive to end wailing that we have no more space to paint. We have to weave a new canvas, cast our net far and wide to fetch our paint and brush and start painting afresh. Before we put our brush to canvas we should be certain of our conception of what the whole painting will be like. The landscape must suit the climate, the tree must fit the climate, the foliage the tree and the fruit the foliage. It is for such concurrence in a composite picture that all our studies are needed. It is believed it will be accomplished.

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Latest comments

  • 1
    3

    Should not one ask the question, where did the Sinhalese place themselves in the painting against all odds – amidst the hegemony of the servile Sinhala and Tamil elite?

    • 10
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      Instead of grandstanding, the TNA needs to focus on getting a proper buss stand set up in Jaffna so that the poor commuters do not suffer.

      TNA is so busy fighting with the govt. that it is neglecting helping the poor people of Jaffna who in the first place elected them. TNA, Mavai Sumanthiran, Wiggles needs to get their priorities straight.. and balanced. first let Jaffna be developed in a PEOPLE-FRIENDLY way and do not just keep beating the war drums against Mahinda Rajapaksa’s military occupation…

      The TNA should not play the old game and follow the LTTE strategy of Staving and exploiting the people of the Northeast and by multiplying their grievances radicalize them Tamils to fight the Sinhala Army. This is a loser’s strategy that destroyed the Tamil society of Sri Lanka! TNA must be more intelligent and work for the DEVELOPMENT of the people as its fight the Jarapassa regime…

      • 6
        3

        Just checked out the Colombo International Book Fair at the BMICH which is NOT international at all.
        It is a MONO CULTURAL and PAROCHIAL Sinhala Only event.. except for a scattering of English books – mostly dictionaries and the like and a Huge Chinese stall

        Even though Colombo is over 50 percent Tamil speaking there are NO Tamil books and the I could not find any Tamil language script on any of the sign boards at the fair! The three language policy obviously does not work in Colombo SInhala Only Book fair!

        The Ministry of National Integration and the Colombo Municipality headed by that UNP clown Muzamil are asleep on the job as usual..

        The Oxford and Cambridge and Indian book publishers like Sage all seem to have abandoned the Sinhala only Colombo Book fair this year! No serious books in the social sciences or humanities…

        Just a Sinhala only books circus where UNHEALTHY junk food (coke and maggie noodles are doing brisk business) are consumed by a Sinhala ONLY community that is fundamentally “ignorant” whose leaders do not believe in the RIGHT TO INFORMATION but feed them junk food by the gallons. The Colombo Sinhala Only Book fair reflects a sadly under educated and MONOCULTURAL society – NO reconciliation in sight!

        • 1
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          All the american events, companies and businesses are international or WORLD.

          So, why not Sinhale ?

        • 7
          7

          Dinuk,
          I feel your pain. Possible causes for your observations;

          1. Most book publishers have abandoned print books and concentrate on e-books. In the west you see no book fairs anymore.
          2. Most Tamils in Colombo don’t read Tamil or Sinhalese books. They read English books and as they are a wealthy group they read e-books downloaded online.
          3. Tamils are currently busy with the TNA trying to get the SL forces out of the North. and get police powers and possibly an Elam. For that they need to work hard with various Diaspora groups and paid NGOs. No time for reading.
          4. Most remaining Tamils are older because the LTTE got rid of children (as child soldiers). These older Tamils have read everything and know everything Example: Vignaswaran
          5. Hard working Tamils who want to better them selves and move forward trying to learn Sinhalese and buying Sinhalese books.

          • 5
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            Nuisance

            You have raised very important points.

            Could you refer me to the source document.

            • 1
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              Vedda,
              Are you asking for source documents when i wrote about possible causes?

        • 0
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          Dinuk

          “Even though Colombo is over 50 percent Tamil speaking there are NO Tamil books and the I could not find any Tamil language script on any of the sign boards at the fair! The three language policy obviously does not work in Colombo SInhala Only Book fair!”

          These exhibitions as you described are thing of the future. Get used to the idea of living in or visiting Sinhala/Buddhist ghetto.

          If indeed the organisers wanted other minorities to participate they would have invited long established Tamil book sellers to open their stalls in a corner of the premises.

          My Elders who fly on Sri Lankan airline are very upset they are always being welcome by Aiybowan, not good morning, good afternoon, Good evening nor a Vannakkam, though there may be three flight assistants waiting at the door.

          Ultimate goal, denying the existence of minorities in this island. These are the small building blocks with which state is trying very hard to build a ultimate Sinhala/Buddhists ghetto.

          Please ignore Nuisance as she has been sitting on her brain since her mother gave birth to her.

          • 2
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            Vedda,
            I mistakenly thought you know how to treat a lady.

            • 1
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              Nuisance

              “I mistakenly thought you know how to treat a lady.”

              I am very well equipped to treat ladies, only if they are ladies not she devils.

    • 0
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      S. Sivathasan –

      RE: Did Tamils Always Paint Themselves Into A Corner?

      No. The sinhala Always Painted Themselves Into A Corner and called Para-Demala, etc.

  • 6
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    Thank You Mr Sivathasan for an article that clearly points positively to an altogether better future.

  • 7
    7

    Did Tamils Always Paint Themselves Into A Corner?

    Without a shred of doubt.

    Tamils and Sinhalese thrive on self destruction.

    • 6
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      That’s why there are so few of them and so many Veddahs.

      • 5
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        paul

        “That’s why there are so few of them and so many Veddahs.”

        We don’t self-destruct.

        A continuing genocide over 2500 years, perpetrated by Kallthoni Tamils/Sinhalese.

        • 0
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          “We don’t self-destruct.”

          Veddahs now use condoms.

      • 3
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        Self inflicting Paul the `tree worshiper` even chops trees!
        All for a bit of dough.

    • 1
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      Rather than the expression Painting I would have preferred “consigned to” or “pushed into”

      Did I understand you in context as you refer to 4 berths for Tamils during Mrs. B’s tenure in July 1960 “for a fresh beginning” One wonders with Sinhala hawks like NQ Dias and the Sinhala supremacists around even a single Cabinet post was near unthinkable. That is what C. Kumarasuriyar got (Posts Ministry) in 1970 after Dudley’s 1965-70 Govt brought in the first Cabinet Minister in M. Tiruchelvam QC. JR brought it to 3.

      Whether Sri Lanka progresses or disintegrates is in the hands of the
      Rajapakse Brothers – who do not seems to understand the dangerous times we live in.

      R. Varathan

  • 4
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    “Tesawalamai Law” mentality of the Vellalas who by the way are inhabitants of Wellala Gardens is the cause..

    • 2
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      K.A Sumanasekera

      ““Tesawalamai Law” mentality of the Vellalas who by the way are inhabitants of Wellala Gardens is the cause..”

      What is Thesawalamai?

      You may have change you cracking record.

      Find something new and interesting.

      • 1
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        Sumane, As you know, Tesawalamai was codified by the Dutch to keep this ‘native vedda’ like kallathonis from the east in Lanka.

        • 3
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          mechanic

          Sinhala speaking Demela

          The Ancient Jaffna was published in 1926.

          You say GG Ponna caused the first riot in 1939.

          Where is the evidence?

          Why do you lie?

          Do a fact check before you copy paste information that you believe authentic.

    • 1
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      Sumani,

      Please refrain from talking about subjects you do not understand.

  • 4
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    Well, isolation is necessary if Tamil state is to be created is’t it? I have been researching a not so well known phrase used within the Tamil nationalist project. The phrase is “exodus”.

    Given the historical connotation it had to be a religious person who was behind it. The founders of FP had the ideology but many Tamils still lived outside NE. This obviously did not sit well with them. SJV uttered a few times how Colombo Tamils were too lazy to join the bandwagon. They had successfully isolated the Tamils politically. Although physically most Tamils remained outside of NE.

    Along comes the instigation of riots. If anyone has any doubts of 1977 riots they need to read Justice Sansoni report how the TULF instigated it all. Eventually the idea of the “exodus” had gone into the head of Prabarkan. Then 1983 riots takes place.

    The audacity of it all was when the 1972 constitution was formulated. Here we have, the members of TULF whom had boycotted everything since 1949 moaning the loss of Soulbury constitution!

    N.V. Navaratnam in particular leads the charge. They protest the loss of the Privy council and the senate. Had they joined the constitution making process in the first place they could have molded it to a certain degree. Although they boycotted it too.

    1972 was very similar to what TNA is doing today. My advise to TNA is join the PSC and bring back Tamils into the system. There is a small window before the prez election.

    • 9
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      Are you blind, all that Tamil leaders want is to beat the war drums and hold on to their bantu land.

  • 7
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    It has always been ‘All or Nothing’ by idiotic protaganists Clelva, Ponna, Sunda, Prabha. They achieved ‘Nothing’ and they whinge and moan. Same goes for Samba and Wiggy, losers like the rest.

  • 1
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    Mr Sivathasan,

    Thank you.
    You are article start “If the answer is yes”.

    If the answer is NO , …

    • 1
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      sorry about typing mistake
      “You are article start” should be “Your article …”
      Thanks

    • 2
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      Anpu

      If the answer is NO, the suggestion is that Tamils were either out-painted ie in a contest or painted out ie without resistance. In either event they are eclipsed from the canvas.

      It will make good reading if a reader would say no, cite happenings in support and argue out that Tamils stayed put without defeat from 1931.

      Strategies were inappropriate to a contest that was uneven may be the picture that emerges.

      • 1
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        When Tamils were holding the 65% of the government jobs, what kind of painting was that? When Hitler throwing Jews out of Germany did America , Canada offered them refuge?

        Sivathasan can not remember what happened to LSSP in Sirima government. He should have talked to Roni de Mel.

        What is story of Thevanayakam, Thondaman, GG, Pillaiyan, Anandasangari who all wanted to work with government in contrast with FP, TULF, TNA?

        Sivathasan bring Tamils Nadu. Tamil is facing Hindi pressure. But is has not shut off their progress. Lankan Tamils can not talk for themselves. Tamils Nadu can decide election with Eelam Tamils issues. When did they started to paint them with Annathurai’s brush? What happened to Karunadhi when borrowed the brush from Sonia? Did Modi painted Gurath with Sonia’s brush?

        Tamils Nadu can do lot to us. But Delhi insisting its leadership. It wants to build Hanuman statue and Hindi University in Jaffna. Other than that Tamil Nadu is a poor state compared to west. West want to help us. Kilinochi Garment factory is US aids effort. Why the King not asking the west to come and Develop Tamils land?

        • 2
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          Can’t understand anything this idiot ‘Mallaiyuran’ is typing

      • 3
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        S.Sivathasan and Anpu

        The simple fact is that the Sri Lankan people were given blank canvases TWICE in the last 66 years Firstly, in 1948 we started joyfully and then some of our earliest scheming politicians grabbed the brush and turned the painting into a study in horror that would have impressed Dante.

        Our second chance came after the events of May 2009. Guess what! WE the people were not even given the brush. A ruthless honcho has set about trying to recreate the hell we thought we left behind.

        Will none of the many gods we worship save us?

  • 6
    7

    According to Kumaru Sarvanandan, a Chavakachcheri Pradeshiya Sabha member, although the TNA is in power, they do nothing to resolve this issue because they want to prove to the government that without police powers and the implementation of the 13th Amendment they cannot do anything to resolve this issue. However he alleges that these gangs are mostly backed up by the TNA members. Speaking to The Sunday Leader, Sarvanandan said, After the war, it was the TNA that took the best advantage. They do not want to resolve these social issues as they are fueling these issues and manipulating them to increase their power. The government on the other hand is taking great efforts to improve the infrastructure and uplift the living standards of the people in the North. But all the efforts taken by the government is of no use since the northern society is facing great deterioration, he said.

    • 2
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      Jim Nutty:
      What about Fathima Fukushima?

    • 1
      1

      TNA NPC has not paid any meaningful attention to urgent matters that can improve matters for the people – education, health, agriculture. They just keep harping on grabbing Police and land powers. Their latest ploy is civil disobedience. If the government is wise they can easily turn it into a fiasco for the TNA.

  • 3
    1

    MR. Sivathasan ,

    I am beginning to feel that the Tamils were destined to be ‘ Screwed’ ( in modern parlance)whatever they did, in the post colonial era. Even Vellupillai Prabaharan got the Tamils screwed up more, faster.The ‘ Dutugemunu’ political agenda continues relentlessly in the Sinhala political agenda, regardless of who governs the country- both person and party.

    As one perceptive writer said a couple of years back, ” Prabaharan is the best friend of the Sinhalese” . It was an interesting thought. I would only amend it to say, ‘ All Tamil political leaders and political/ militant groups, have been, are and continue to be best friends of the Dutugemunus who ascend the political ladder among the Sinhala community’. Whatever the Tamils seek and do, will not halt the relentless march of the Dutugemunus in pursued of the unsaid Dutugemunu Principle that wants absolute Sinhala hegemony. The modern Dutu Gemunus yet feel that they are hedged in by the Tamils on one side and deep blue sea on the other side! They will not be able to sleep until there is a Tamil community that insists on asserting its identity. The poor fellows have not been able to sleep for a thousand years since Dutugemunu! The Tamils have tried all options including the possibilities in the leaky 13th amendment and miserably failed in the face if this sleepless, mindless and mad quest.

    The Tamil Saivites with their, ” Naam Yaarkum Kudiyaloam, Namanai Anjoam, Narahathil Idappadoam” ( We are no ones slaves will not fear the God of Death and will not fear being condemned to hell) , will also keep their heads up whatever comes their way, until the God they love and fear, redeems them.

    Dr.Rajasingham Narendran

    • 5
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      Buddy Dr.Rajasingham,

      As I recall the 13th Amendment was agreed between TULF, Rajiv & Prbakaran way before it was tabled in Sri Lanka Parliament. A majority had no say in it.

      Was there a mandate from NE people at least? How did this thing come about? Who said it was ok other than TULF, Prabarkan and Rajiv Ghandi?

      Is that how you plan to “Escape Sinhala hegemony” each time there is constitutional change? What is going to happen with the next constitutional amendment? You want to run to India again do you?

      • 2
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        Well and good. I am with you.To correct the mistake, let us have a referendum in the North and East. However, let it not be like the on-going Uva election campaign! The Tamil vote cannot be bought with Rs.2500/=.

        Dr.RN

        • 3
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          Dr.RN,

          Buddy, Tamils have been bought for much less than Rs 2500. The original question still stands, on what basis was 13th amendment implemented.

          The referendum was already held wasn’t it? The Tamil Eelam vote of 1977 based on Voddokodai Resolution? That is what the TULF claimed anyway.

          That is why TULF ran to Rajiv Ghandi and he obliged? The only problem was they got the numbers wrong isn’t it? Only 48% NE voted for Tamil Eelam then am I right?

          Then there were further conditions of 13th amendment to do with LTTE being unarmed, and that did not happen. Where is the validity for anything with regard to 13th amendment? So what has changed since then? My original question stands.

          • 2
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            Vibushna you Sinkalam:

            The original question still stands, on what basis was 13th amendment implemented.

            The original question still stands: On what basis did the Sinkalams annex Tamil Eelam and for your information it was done by default when the bloody British gave it to Sinkalams.

            So what has changed since then? : Yes you are right nothing has changed and therefore Eelam is ours.

            • 2
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              kali

              the Tamil speaking Sinkalam

              “Yes you are right nothing has changed and therefore Eelam is ours.”

              Not in another million years.

              Please go back to your ancestral land in South India. When you go please take your Sinahala speaking Demela brethren Vibhushana with you.

              • 2
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                GRANDAD:

                After the AR Rehman debacle I thought you would have surrendered.
                Eelam is not for Foreign Stateless Veddas to give but for the Bumi Puthras to take. So stop talking rubbish.

                • 1
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                  Kali Modistani

                  You never get the point.

                  I will come back on A. R. Rahman discussion.

                  “Eelam is not for Foreign Stateless Veddas to give but for the Bumi Puthras to take.”

                  Then take your Sinhala speaking brethren with you when you leave.

                  • 1
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                    GRANDAD:

                    You head is in a spin and spinning out of control and that is why you cant think straight.

        • 1
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          Dr.Narendran
          Most Tamils live outside the North and East. And that alone negate the whole purpose of self determination for Tamils of Sri Lanka. I have been saying that Tamils are Tamils no matter where they live. So I suggest, you ought to propose a referendum in a place where more than 90% of all Tamil in the world live together. And that is Tamil Nad. Remember, your cousins there had an unofficial plebiscite in 1962 on the back of the State election. Perhaps you can tell us the action that plebiscite promoters followed after that.

        • 1
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          Why waste time Naren everyone knows Tamils who live in the North have referendums at each and every election there.

        • 2
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          Vibhushana,

          The Indian External Affairs Ministry Secretary Syed Akbarudin has affirmed and re-affirmed yesterday that the SL government is committed to fully implementing the 13th amendment. With whom is the SL government playing hide and seek now? Is it with SL citizens?

          Dr.RN

          • 2
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            Indian Crooks and Cowboys coming soon end of month.
            “Modi’s biggest challenge is to kick start a lagging economy.
            Modi has India independent international relations and now he has lost local elections plus enhanced the north south divide for his own ethnicity- will again show at Maharashtra (RSS origin state) & Haryana (Foreign Minister Sashimi state.)
            India-Japan civilian nuclear deal did not come through, Japan’s readiness to ease export restrictions to allow Japanese defence firms to participate in India’s huge weapons market is an offer that China cannot match.
            Kochi in Kerala instead sister city of Ahmedabad,.
            Kochi houses the unique Chinese fishing nets, which remained a major travel attraction. Xi also considered a visit to Kerala as part of his vision to develop the strategic 21st century Maritime Silk Road (MSR) to recreate the epic voyage undertaken by Zheng He. China has invited India to be part of the MSR.

            Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New York on September 28 would be hosted by Miss America 2014 Nina Davuluri[hindu telugu] and a popular Indian-origin news anchor. Hari Sreenivasan.[NRI Guajarati’s who spearheaded his media campaign 2 years ago when Mayawathie was being hounded by the western media.]
            Meanwhile, cavity check Preet Bharara has stuck Insider Trading (Steve Cohen CEO is free) former Portfolio Manager with 9 years for just one whisper [On Sept. 8, Mathew Martoma,(Indian Origin) a former portfolio manager at Wall Street hedge fund SAC Capital Advisers, was slapped with a nine-year prison sentence by a U.S. district judge in New York for passing along inside information from doctors involved in Alzheimer’s drug trials at two pharmaceutical companies.]
            Modi better stick to Chai Bhai- foreign relations is not for him to be independent Hindia south block.
            Nothing is going to happen even with UN.

            • 1
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              Ja_vi you JIHADIST PIG.

              What are you talking about when the writer talks about “Did Tamils Always Paint Themselves Into A Corner”

              Stop talking C_R_A_P about Cheenavedi.

              (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕)(^‿◕)(^‿◕)(^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕)

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          Vibhushana,

          The Indian External Affairs Ministry Secretary Syed Akbarudin has affirmed and re-affirmed yesterday that the SL government is committed to fully implementing the 13th amendment. With whom is the SL government playing hide and seek now? Is it with SL citizens?

          Dr.RN

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            Dr. RN,

            Nothing remains the same do they really? Especially living documents like the constitutions. There will be many more amendments. Over time the constitution that what majority wishes will remain.

            Sinhala hegemony is something you cannot avoid if you live in Ceylon. You should not give yourself and others false hopes.

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              No one resents the Sinhala majority. Least of all me. However, what is resented is the majoritarianism that accompanies the numbers game. Everyone has to have equal opportunities and equal status as individuals and citizens. The population ratios will then automatically become represented in all walks of life, with best fitting into where they belong. This would be democracy at work.

              Dr.RN

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                Dr. RN,

                While BBS was protesting Moslem Halal I saw them digging into some oily Halal pork Biriyani for lunch.

                I suggested to them the same thing I suggest to you. If you complain about someone, you need to be better than the other party. If not you simply forfeit your claim.

                Now, you are complaining “Majoritism” and so on, while still keeping your primitive caste system isn’t it? Its not good enough to simply claim “its waning” when I know its not.

                Furthermore, if I recall the Tamil struggle began as a solution to Tamils. However, it killed and displaced more Tamils than anyone else could muster – isnt it? It also involved Tamil vs Tamil regional killings, Tamil killing and destroying everything else they can think of.

                Tamil stuggle began as a solution to “Majoritism” but it ended up sending 75,000 Moslem minority out of Jaffna isnt it?

                All these things have forfeited to any grievances you had before.

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                  There is a big hole in your argument.

                  The social ills in tamil society and how they treat lesser poeple in their own community does not affect the way this country should be governed. Actually we sinhalese have no right to point at that given the way our past leaders and people have acted.

                  There is a FACT that all of us sinhalese need to understand, that is tamil people have been wronged by Sinhala leaders.

                  During the war and even soon after the end of war MR promised that they will implement 13A fully. so why back tracking now? Havent we lost tamil people’s trust in us already? In such a situation why further erode it?

                  The first thing MR needs to do is implementing 13A fully. Make sure Tamils are relieved of the fear of losing their identity and culture.

                  See the implementation of tamil language in official space and make sure tamil too is a state language in true sense.

                  And redefine SL as a multi ethnic and multi religious secular state.

                  But what does MR do?
                  Took more than 3 years to implement 13A. Even trying to back track the current one.
                  Let the BBS loose and scream in every junction ‘Sri lanka is a sinhala buddhist country’. Even me being a buddhist does not want to live in BBS version of sinhala buddhist country let alone a tamil.
                  And what is this nonsense in creating sinhala settlements in north? Are the policy makers in this country insane?

                  before pointing at others we need to make our mistakes right.
                  Do tangible things to make sure that tamils can have a future in SL.

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                    Sach,

                    Thanks for this comment. You have correctly diagnosed the crux of the problem. MR has tried to do the ‘Parangiyawa Kotte Genicchche’ event with the Tamils, without realising the Tamil understand his devious ploy, as did the Portuguese of yesteryear.

                    Dr.RN

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                    Sach,

                    The lesson from the ‘ NO’ vote in Scotland:

                    1. Treat minorities fairly.
                    2. Respect their differentness.
                    3. Respect their aspirations for authority to manage their affairs.
                    4. Win their respect and loyalty.
                    5. Hear their voice in a democratic manner.
                    6. Never forget that the minorities love this country too.
                    7. Let the country function as a true democracy, where the citizens collective voice is supreme.

                    Dr.RN

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          Dr Narendran,

          How can you have a referendum in the North and the East only, when over 50 % of the inhabitant Tamil people live in the other parts of the country.

          Unless our Dalit cousins from India are not counted in the TNA. population.list……

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            The referendum for Scottish independence is being held only in Scotland and not in the whole of the UK.
            That is democracy at work. I hope the Scots will vote to stay within the UK. The British are wooing the Scots to stay within the union, with both the carrot and the stick. Why not try this in the north and east? This will give you the opportunity to woo the Tamils? The Tamils may opt to stay within Sri Lanka, given more devolved powers. This will set to rest your ghastly phobias and respond to the Tamil needs. If the Tamils opt to separate, why not let them go or offer to negotiate a new deal. This will take us into the ranks of a civilised modern country.
            I would personally campaign for a united Sri Lanka, while demanding that more power be devolved to all provinces to manage their affairs to the greatest extent possible. Will you join in me such circumstances?

            Dr.RN

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            There are many Scots living in the rest of UK. They are not voting in this referendum. Further, my original comment was in response to Vibushana’s question in his comment whether the Tamils in the north and east gave their consent to the 13th amendment.

            Dr.RN

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        Vibhushana

        “As I recall the 13th Amendment was agreed between TULF, Rajiv & Prbakaran way before it was tabled in Sri Lanka Parliament. A majority had no say in it.”

        The 13th Amendment was passed with majority in the parliament. Isn’t that more than enough?

        By the way Sinhala only language policy was imposed on the minority who had no say in it.

        The 1972 constitution was imposed on the minority who did not have say in it.

        “Was there a mandate from NE people at least?”

        The first elections for provincial councils took place on 28 April 1988. Subsequently other councils were also established and elections held. The elections for merged North East Council was held on 19 November 1988. Wasn’t it an endorsement of the Council?

        If the people didn’t approve the councils they could have boycotted those elections and stop dealing with councils.

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          Native,

          Your contention with the language act and the 1972 constitution will be reasonable had there been any sign Tamil leadership wanted to work for Ceylon isn’t it?

          When the Tamil leadership had already declared its intention to be independent and work in their own Tamil-only corner, why should Ceylon bother with accommodating Tamil needs?

          Before PC council, the problem we have is on what basis was it established in the first place? Re > my response to Dr. RN.

          cheers

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            Vibhushana

            “Before PC council, the problem we have is on what basis was it established in the first place?”

            The Act was passed in the parliament with majority MPs voting for it, a very good reason.

            “Your contention with the language act and the 1972 constitution will be reasonable had there been any sign Tamil leadership wanted to work for Ceylon isn’t it?”

            Chelva worked tirelessly with Banda only to be abandoned the reasonable use of Tamil language under your pressure (Sinhala/Buddhist).

            VP (I presume he was a Tamil)is the only one foolishly defended this island’s sovereignty while the Sinhala/Buddhists armed forces were hiding behind their women folks. The Hindians had him killed.

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              Native,

              Chelva worked tirelessly for a Tamil Nation. I do not want to go in circles, but as discussed before TNA and DMK of Tamil Nadu are twins with their policies and aims.

              India blocked Chelva’s twin Anandroai in 1969 whereas Sri Lanka only implemented the 6th amendment when it was too late.

              Chelva’s Tamil homeland is like the Islam caliphate. Islam according to many is a peaceful religion. Although its open to radical interpretations given its narrow mandate.

              Now, it does not in anyway bode well for anyone in SL to promote anything of this nature does it? Its not good because just like Allah’s heaven for Moslems, Chelva’s heaven for Tamils can be a nightmare in the wrong hands as we have witnessed.

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                Vibhushana

                Please update your knowledge on Nation, Nation State, and Country. Look up the definitions.

                Nations are not necessarily states.

                “India blocked Chelva’s twin Anandroai in 1969 whereas Sri Lanka only implemented the 6th amendment when it was too late.”

                Hindia promoted VP and LTTE under the Tamil Eelam, financed, trained and armed them for its own regional interest.

                Nehru and Indra were accommodative to DMK demands, Hindi language policies were abandoned in Tamilnadu, Madras state was renamed Tamilnadu on linguistic lines, more devolved powers were forthcoming from centre,………… thus weakening DMK demand initially for Dravida nadu and later for Tamilnadu. It was in 1966 or before DMK gave up its core demand when Chelva was begging for reasonable use of Tamil language concession from UNP and SLFP.

                Please stop writing new history.

                “Chelva’s Tamil homeland is like the Islam caliphate.”

                Definitely Chelva couldn’t stop Sinhala/Buddhists building a Sinhala/Buddhists Ghetto in this island.

                Chelva did not

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                  Native,

                  How old is this imbecile Vibhushana? We need to get hold of the history books he reads or imagines more like!

    • 0
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      A correction to the main comment:
      —in pursuit of the unsaid—-

      Dr.RN

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      Dr.Rajasingham Narendran

      “The Tamil Saivites with their, ” Naam Yaarkum Kudiyaloam, Namanai Anjoam, Narahathil Idappadoam” ( We are no ones slaves will not fear the God of Death and will not fear being condemned to hell) , will also keep their heads up whatever comes their way, until the God they love and fear, redeems them.”

      Here is something my Elders wanted me to remember:

      Puranaannuru – 192

      Poet Kanian Punguntran

      All are our place; every one is our relatives,
      Bad & Good does not come from others,
      Similarly pain & relief as well,
      Death is not new at all, we neither
      Feel proud to live, nor
      Feel distress to end, like the
      Water fall from sky as stone after lightening
      Thunder, though clean and colourless, after touching
      The earth takes the colour and quality of the place of fall,
      And run with river, Our life also takes shape depending upon circumstances
      And these facts realised & understood by the learned elders,
      And hence we don’t flatter privileged and more than that
      We don’t snuff the disadvantaged!

      Dr.Rajasingham Narendran

      I am not sure whether this is a good translation. May be Sivathasan can give us a better one.

      Most of my Elders completely agree with the poet.

      “Bad & Good does not come from others,
      Similarly pain & relief as well,”

      This is what I call self destruction. There is something in this lines both stupid people need to learn and understand.

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        Dear Native Veddah,

        Thanks for reminding us of the , ‘” Yaathum Uray, Yavarum Kerleer; Theethum, Nanmayum Pirar Tharan Varaa—-” Sangam poem and providing a fair translation of it. This was a poem composed when Tamil literature and thoughts were in their golden age, The words are profound and beautifully strung together. The world has become our abode now. The Tamil identity, more than the Tamil consciousness should survive the buffeting that is inevitable in these circumstances. We have to be Tamils in language and culture, while also being citizens of wherever we are in this world. The north and east of. Sri Lanka will continue to be the heart and soul of the classical Tamil identity, come what may-hail, storm, Tsunami or hell.

        Dr.RN

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        I think that is G.U.Pope’s translations. He did extremely well on it. To tell the truth, I separated most of the meaning from his translation, because the original is that tough even to Tamils to parse it. But he fell little short on the first line, though it was the most admired political line. Rest are literature and philosophy. That is why the song frequently cited at political arenas rather than academical sites.

        Basically it is difficult to interpret or translate the first line. So Pope just transplanted the words there.

        One side of the interpretation can be put this way. But, others may disagree! “There are many lands. There are many (styles of)livings. But there all the human life is the one exist. Anybody you come across there is not anonymous to you. You are not anonymous to them. Don’t have to bend for them. Don’t expect them to bend to you. Live along your life so that you can very well get along too.Take it easy.”

        I have been wondering what might have induced him to touch so many unrelated subjects in that short prose. One could be it was the time very heavy numbers, Tamils were abandoning the Old salivate Hinduism and jumping into Buddhism and Jainism. With the new religions, a considerable Northerners might have been migrating to Tamil Nadu. Many Tamils might have painted them in the corner, when the best of the best likes Thiruvalluvar, Ilango, Thirunavukarasar had connections with foreign religions.

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      Was Praba a Saivite?….

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        If he was a Saivaite and a Tamil in spirit and thought, he would not have done what he did and he would not have died the way he did. His actions and reactions would have been tempered by a profound philosophical tradition. He would have known his place in this world and understood his role better. He would have travelled the right path righteously. He could have yet fought, but differently. He would have been the deliverer, without trying to become the Demi-a God. If he had destroyed or subdued his ego, he could have become the instrument to deliver his people, instead of the instrument to destroy his people.

        Pattinathar- a Saivaite Savant has said, ” Than Vinnai Thanai Sudum, Orttappam Veetai Sudum”
        I an sure you will find several true to measure Saivaite Tamils yet in the Vellalahlathottam ( Wellawatte) you live in, to understand what this means. Please make the effort and you will benefit.

        Dr.RN

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          Dr Narendran.

          I bet there would be, and I am sure I go pass or along side a few on my daily walks along the Marine Drive.

          It is going to be 4 lanes soon for the Vellala Saivaites to get to work without sitting in traffic jams,

          Tt is going to have a Braoad Walk too all the way to Colombo 3 along the beach to make the Vellala’s power walking more comfortable. .

          Also I bow down a bit in front of the spanking new Lord Ganesh’s temple in the Ramakhrisna multi storey dig. And there must be a few there too.

          I do the same at the other small one attached to wall of the Sinhala Buddhist Temple next to the new hip OZO hotel.

          But these delivery of good deeds to the inhabitants of the Vellalathotam don’t get a mention in TNA Reports to the UN and the Diaspora Mentors in the West?.

          Are the CM Wigneswaran and his Vellala Handlers Saivaites?…

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          I think it is more likely Wella-Watta is “Garden in the beach” (Sinhala) rather than any connection with Tamil Vellalas.

          Dr. B.I. Passe

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        No, he was a Gunnite – he worshipped guns.

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      “Prabaharan was the best friend of the Sinhalese” is not an interesting or insightful thought. It is offensive and ridiculous.

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        Dr Romesh Senewiratne-Alagaratnam

        “It is offensive and ridiculous.”

        If you look at VP’s strategy and tactics all were aimed at enhancing Sinhala/Buddhists’ exclusive hold on this island.

        He wiped off all the armed Tamil groups thus weakening Tamils who had no say in their destiny, and made sure the second exodus of the population including the middle class.

        He went to war against India and fought for Sinhala/Buddhist state.

        He assassinated many people including Rajiv in the process he alienated Tamils from Hindian establishment.

        He won the elections for MR and ultimately he won the war for him.

        If he was not a friend of Sinhala/Buddhists whose friend was he?

        Many Sinhala/Buddhists also benefited from the war.

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          Dear Native,

          How did you miss your TNGTE ?.

          PM is based in NYC, Deputy PM is in London, Speaker is in Scarborough. Sorry Toronto.

          An MP and a Senator housed in Tamil Nadu , probably old Maddras.

          And an ex US Attorney is a Senator as well.

          And the TNGTE represents Diaspora plus another 72 Million Naduans.

          This is all from a TNGTE Website.

          And you reckon your Praba did our SBs, big favours.

          BTW how did Mrs Balasingham miss a gig ?????

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    It is Sinhala-govt’s weakness they don’t reach enough to tamils and has allowed every thing to Yapanaya tobacco farmers who says they are high castes.

    TNA itself shows how divided Tamils are.

    Tamils are high caste tamils who want to use low caste tamils, Tamils from North, Batti-Tamils, Upcountry Tamils, Colombo Tamils.

    IT is easy to reach to them and chase out those tobacco farmers.

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    TOO LATE! Not a chance! Pan-Sinhalese indeed! No, Sinhalese did not anti-pan as like Vellhalas did against Dalits. Panning was an inherent part of Buddhistic virtues. Only thing left for Thamils to do is admit Sinhala genes. Enough of the pure-Dravidian play-acting (where 1% Tamil aristocracy aka Vellhala from Tamil Nadu forced poor Sinhala persons into Tamil mania). Anyone with compulsive urges to act the pure-Dravidian part must mass exodus to mother Tamil Nadu. Panned Sinhalese are very glad to pan out further and accept into the Sinhala-fold 15% Tamil into language, script and religion.

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    “The Tamil Saivites with their, ” Naam Yaarkum Kudiyaloam, Namanai Anjoam, Narahathil Idappadoam” ( We are no ones slaves will not fear the God of Death and will not fear being condemned to hell) , will also keep their heads up whatever comes their way, until the God they love and fear, redeems them. ” Dr.Rajasingham Narendran .

    Irish, scots, Jews, French, Greeks, Spartans, Italians, Black Americans, Native Americans, Americans, South Americans and many other communities also hold the same view. All wars were and are fought when one community or nation, or state tries to control another.
    Ethir

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    I really do not understand the purpose of this article by Mr.Sivathasan. He is enjoying his time in writing articles of the past and posting on Colombo Telegraph. Paint about the present and the future. The comments by various learned people is just rubbish.

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      Sellam

      “He is enjoying his time in writing articles of the past and posting on Colombo Telegraph.”

      What is wrong with that?

      “The comments by various learned people is just rubbish.”

      Where did you get the idea that commentators are learned people?

      Don’t assume things and then blame others for not fitting into your foolish expectations.

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      It is unfortunate that purposes clearly enunciated and salient points easily assimilable have gone over unread and unbrowsed.

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    Mr.Sivathasan:

    Did Tamils Always Paint Themselves Into A Corner:

    The answer is an emphatic no for the following reasons.

    There is a saying in Tamil: Chivar Irunthalthan Chithiram Eluthalam. For ther benefit of those who dont undestand the beautiful language Tamil it means you have to have a wall to paint a picture.

    I am struggling to make sense out of your article and I am not sure if it is an attack on TNA and Tamils for not making use of the opportunities ( which as a fomer civil servant you seem to think existed but I disagre) or a wake up call to both.
    For the last 64 years we never had the WALL ( ie Sinhalese Goverenments )genuinly willing to grant Tamils power ( PAINT )to govern themselves ( CHITHIRAM) within a United Sri Lanka.
    Why do you think Prabakaran took up arms if it was possible to reason with the RACIST Sinhalese politicians. The Race card is the most potent weapon to win elections and every politician played it to a degree but none more so than Mahhintha.
    Dont delude yourself by thinking that you can get anything from Mahintha the born RACIST who is hell bent on turning Sri Lanka into SINHALA LNKA.
    My friend we have been in a Deep Coma for the last 5 years and we are just coming out of it. We need the Walking Stick ( outside help) to walk and to continue walking.
    The Federal System that we envisage in Sri Lanka is different from what they have in India for the following reasons.

    1) In India there are so many different regions with much bigger populations. So there are checks and balances which keeps the Central Government in check without risking the Indian Union. In Sri Lanka we dont have that and the only country which can guarantee a Fedreral System is India.

    ***The Boycott mentality stalked ever since, but strong TNA leadership thwarted its reentry at the Northern Provincial Council election of 2013.

    My friend can you explian to me what we have achived since the election a of a CM. He is a CM in name only and he cant even visit places in the North or East let alone run the North as per peoples mandate without the permission of the Army which a Sinhalese from the South dosent need. We are powerless.

    Wake up to the fact that talking to Mahintha the BORN RACIST on our own is not going to get us anywhere and we have not pinted ourselves into a corner but we have been kept prisoners.

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      சுவர் இருந்தால்தான் சித்திரம் வரையலாம், என்பது பழமொழி

      This is something that S. Sivathasan understands better than you or me.

      The issue with Sivathasan is different. He is purely theoretical in his thinking and outlook. சித்திரம் is not theory.

      What Sivathasan has said about the tactics adopted by our leadership is largely true. But, we the helpless minority confronting an uncharitable and unreasonable majority had to cope up to the best of our ability. It was the ways of Gandhi. It was the days of boycott.

      Unfortunately, most of the educated class of Tamils, had shied away from putting their two cents’ worth when it mattered.

      The liberation movement was set sail by a few who lacked the education, position or privilege enjoyed by the likes of Sivathasan.

      Today, Sivathasan, retired and wiser, dabbles in Tamil politics. Is it out of his passion or want of a pastime. One could never read from his writings!

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        Nathan:

        You and Sivathasan are in the same mould and there are many like you. The Liberation movement may have been set by a few but it had a mass following whether you like it or not. At the NPC elections Anathi who had the Movements blood running through her body polled the second highest and even Wigneswaran had to sing the Tiger message. So stop fanatcising. The theory that you are referring to is not Einsteins theory of realtivity and it has relevance whether you dispute it or not.
        If you can get everthing you want by talking to MR why dont you join forces with Sivathasan and prodice results.
        It looks like you have taken a Viswarubam and I will elaborate when we have few more exchanges.

        Greetings

        (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕)(^‿◕)(^‿◕)(^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕) (^‿◕)

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          So that’s what you got out of my comment, – what a pity!

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            Nathan:

            Now that you have challenged my ability to understand your comments let me analyse it.

            1)But, we the helpless minority confronting an uncharitable and unreasonable majority had to cope up to the best of our ability. It was the ways of Gandhi. It was the days of boycott.

            *** Gandhi was fighting a foreign army ( Colonial Army) and he had a huge army of people and the Colonial masters were always going to bite the dust just like in South Africa.
            But in Sri Lanka we are a minority and Ahimsa would never work as we will be overwhelmed.

            Sivathasan writes: We Tamils require a great deal of introspection to identify our repetitive ways and to wrest ourselves from the boycott mindset. Dispassionate analysis of the stands we have taken and the negative results we have obtained will have to go alongside.

            ***In Sri Lanka we don’t control anything and all 4 wings of Governance is in the hands of the Majority. Engaging with the majority will never produce anything as even the minimum that we require to enjoy Freedom Justice and Equality is unacceptable to the 20 Million Racists. So the Boycott mind set is from a position of weakness through rejection and not from a position of Strength.

            2)Unfortunately, most of the educated class of Tamils, had shied away from putting their two cents’ worth when it mattered.

            *** The educated class of Tamils tried for years but had reached a dead end and that saw the birth of the Liberation Movement.

            3) The liberation movement was set sail by a few who lacked the education, position or privilege enjoyed by the likes of Sivathasan.

            *** Are you telling me that you need to have position or come from a privileged family to form a Liberation Movement. On the contrary if you have affluence you are not going to throw it away and it is the underprivileged who would risk their lives to fight for their rights. So get your facts right before you attack those who sacrificed their lives.
            4) Today, Sivathasan, retired and wiser, dabbles in Tamil politics. Is it out of his passion or want of a pastime. One could never read from his writings.

            *** You may not be able to read from his writings but an awful lot of people can and my message is let us speak with one voice at this juncture. When we have the destiny in our hand and a healthy democracy we can then indulge in a debate to make it better.
            But the need of the hour is to stop tearing ourselves apart and that will only serve the enemy.

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              Guys!

              His not Sivathasan. He is Chandrikathasan. He is hoping Chandrika may become the common candidate. So he is paint something rosy about his leader. We not in Lanka. Sivathasan may have a benefit of Cahndrika’s winning. We have no use of that. In Lanka, Raaman aandaalum Raavaanan aandallum there won’t be any concern for us. The same say there is no difference in if there is a EP or PM there. When Satyagiraka time mother had strict order to be back at home by 4:00 PM if we had ventured out for soccer or Thaachchi. That time,(under Anthakala Princess’s mother, Queen Srimavo time, the Brutal Sinhala Army did the same thing it now doing. SJV negotiated with Dudley, not with Queen Sirimavo. If he can write two sentences in English, he think he is a better foresighted, strategical politician than SJV. This guy has no personal experience. Living in Colombo. We never was allowed paint anything of us. That why from 1930 we are fighting for freedom.

              Our path is perfect. SJV Ahimsa. Talavar Prabha Armed. Sampanathar Diplomatic. We are not sitting and dreaming of paints and drawing. Even Blake said “if Lanka genuinely not solving the problem, another generation taking arms is very possible”.

  • 2
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    Mr Izeth who has been at the cross roads for a while, gave some interesting stats on our inhabitant population..

    1881 Sinhalese 60% Hindus 21 % Muslims 7%

    2012 Sinhalese 70% Hindus 12 % Muslims 10 %

    Have the ITAK and its subordinates in the TNA addressed the needs of these inhabitants in their 21 Century set of Resolution for self rule ?.

    Will it help to pull the Vellalas from the corner?…

    • 0
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      Assuming above figures are correct, what is imperative is the rate of ‘increase’ of the populations of each race:
      Sinhala – +16.66%: Tamil -42.86%; Muslim +42.86 for 131 years.

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    Tamil are tribal minded. That is the curse of Tamils.

    Look at Muslims. We have integrated very well with the Srilankan original people (Singhalese) without complaining. That is why Muslims are now the largest minority.

    But Tamils in UK integrate with the English without any complaint! Why? Because even if they cry, the British don’t give a flying fart.

    Look at Tamil ghettoes in Jaffna, Colombo, Batticaloa, Kandy, etc. Tamil-only!

    The only other people who have Tamils’ tribal mentality are in Rwanda, Zaire, Congo, Sudan, Liberia, Togo.

    • 2
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      Fathima:

      Tamils are tribal minded, Sinhalese are Primitive Tribal minded Muslims have no mind at all. If you are very well integrated why do the BBS hate you and kill you. Is it because they see you as a threat or your religion as Primitive.

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    From the date of independence, Singhalese have painted Tamils into a corner.

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    Why keep looking at history for lessons to improve our lot in the present day. History has taught us nothing. We continue to perpetuate our age old enmities, suspicions and inferiority complexes. Not only the Tamils but all races have painted themselves into specific corners.
    Democracy in more ways than one has been a curse than a blessing for this racially divided country.

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    Seeking admission to some of the few prestigious colleges in Tamilnadu may be helpful in the short term. But ultimately, where will all those graduates end up? Undoubtedly in foreign climes! That will hardly be of any help to the people of the North. In the long term, a political solution that would lead to self reliance is the only way out. The TNA and the Tamil diaspora should unite to achieve this goal without delay.

    Sengodan. M

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    If boycotting is painting oneself into a corner, does that also apply to the Boycott Sri Lanka campaign?

    http://www.boycottsrilanka.com/

    These people are making ridiculous claims about “concentration camps” and Nazi-style genocide, which I think hurts the interests of all the people in Sri Lanka, as well as the middle-class Western people the campaign is targetting (since they are deprived of the opportunity of visiting this beautiful country and buying its fine products).

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      Dr Alagaratnam,

      “These people are making ridiculous claims “

      You are the one making ridiculous claims.

      “Almost five years after the end of the civil war, the assessment reflects that the mass atrocity risk in Sri Lanka remains high and addresses some of the underlying sources that represent a threat to human security.” http://thesentinelproject.org/sri-lanka/

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        Anpu,

        The Sentinel Project seems to be a Canadian organization that is focused on “genocide prevention” in Sri Lanka, Burma, Kyrgyzstan, Kenya and, interestingly, Iran. My own research into genocide indicates that they should look closer to home – at the American (including Canadian), British and French biological warfare programs of the Cold War that gave rise to the AIDS epidemic.

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    Muslims have 44 countries. Sinhalese have 1 country. Tamils have no country.

    Tribal minded losers.

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      Fathima:

      That is the problem. Sinhalese have one slaughter house, Muslims have 44 slaughter houses and Tamils don’t slaughter. So don’t need a house.

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    Editor, Colombo Telegraph,
    Dear sir/madam, CT remains one of the few forums open for people to express their views on serious subjects that are close to their hearts. Many of your authors spend a lot of time and effort to articulate their thoughts in these columns, because they care. If these contributions are to have the desired impact, it should be possible for the others to question the views expressed and the facts that are presented within responsible norms. I am certain this is precisely what your Journal/Website hopes to achieve. In this context can I make a humble plea please.

    Opinions can be taken seriously only if the person who is making them has the honesty and integrity to identify himself or herself. In the absence of this integrity, it is difficult to know why some of your commentators make the kind of remarks they make and in the process drag these discussions to meaningless ‘gutter-talk’. As you would see, many of the views expressed either has no relevance to the main article or are ‘malice and poison’ spat out with a clear ulterior motive. This motive can only be the devaluation of CT as a serious and responsible forum. The regularity and frequency with which some these ‘faceless’ commentators appear in these columns strongly suggest that they may even be paid stooges planted here by other vested interests. These vested interests could include the defeated separatists, powers that do not like to see SriLanka emerge as a peaceful muli-ethnic country or simply ‘born racists’ who cannot see a world outside their immediate wells – from all sides of the ethnic divide.

    May I suggest that you change your publication policy so that comments/articles will be published if and only if the writer can be clearly identified. Anonymous comments could be allowed provided the point of view expressed may potentially place the commentators life/limb at risk from the state – as the main non-state player has been – quite rightly, eliminated. Many of the anonymous comments frequently expressed by some predictable characters clearly do not fall into this category……..they are just venom aimed at devaluing your website………why does your editorial policy permit this? This is not a plea for censorship in any shape or form, but merely a request that the commentators are requested to positively identify themselves and take responsibility for what they write.
    Thanks for providing this forum
    Dr Mahesan Nirmalan
    Manchester Medical School.

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      Dr. MN must be new to CT

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      Dr Know all:

      It is a bit rich coming from a person who writes after getting intoxicated spending too long at the pub with the “Tevaram friend”.
      You write a lot of distorted facts and I remember the last time you went to Sri Lanka you were got at by MR and came back and started singing the praise for the THUG.
      I agree with you on one thing and that is a lot of people who comment write things which are not relevant to the topic. Many of them frankly write CRAP. I can accept people expressing biased views like yours but writing CRAP like some do is a waste of space and CT are guilty of allowing this to happen. But CT might take the view that it is FREDOM OF EXPRESSION.

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      Watching people come and go under various pen names is part of the fun, following the commentaries on CT. I like the way that CT approaches democracy, keeping censorship to a minimum. I especially like it when the authors interact with their audience in the comments section.

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    Dear Mr/Ms/Mrs Kali…..sorry just covering all possibilities. I don’t want to prolong your agony. The author you allude to is Mahesan Niranjan and I am Mahesan Nirmalan. I am proud to be associated with the former…..but yes we are different.
    MN

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      Are you twins and both happened to be at Manchester University and Conjoined with fused thinking powers. Do you sing Tevaram just curious.

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    Editor, CT.

    Dr. Nirmalan writes “Express their views on serious subjects that are close to their hearts”. While endorsing it fully I must add, writing is after much study and thought. MN is very correct in spotting anonymity as the villain of frivolity. Clear daylight of identity can terminate what self-restraint fails to do.

    Nehru from prison wrote to his daughter Indira age 17, “Do not do in the dark what you will not do in the day”. Identity lifts the darkness shrouding pseudonyms.

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      S,Sivathasan

      The reason many of us comment here is to seek solace from day to day pressure of eking out a living and making the wife happy.

      Some of us on the other hand regularly release our 1000 years of bottled up anger, which I presume was caused by repeated invasion by Demelas, provoked by colonial history of 500 years, and in my case 2500 years of genocide.

      If you read the comment section on a regular basis you would have noticed some commentators make it a point to lie, plagiarise, distort facts, revise even current events, target a particular community and continue to abuse them, bigotry, ………..

      Exposing all of it in a very crude way is not desirable however it is the only way to make them realise what they say is not acceptable. If we can make it funny even better.

      Three things cannot be long hidden: the sun, the moon, and the truth.

      Buddha

      We need masks to disguise our madness, pseudonyms help us immensely. On second thought the truth is my wife would not let me in the house.

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        Native

        I share your view on pseudonyms. In any case, each our comments leave a trail of evidence of our identity in the internet. And to clear kali’ s confusion on the two Mahesans , I think they are chips of an old illustrious teacher of JHC.
        ken robert
        Thames valley Education

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          ken Robert

          One more important issue pertaining to comment section is not mentioned in this discussion.

          Many read the comments as well as the actual article but rarely comment. When those readers comment they do refer to previous comments in previous threads. All those comments except one or two in fact vitalize the entire discussion some of them actually enlighten the readers.

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    The 1st paragraph at last, is a recognition of the self-alienationation the Tamil politicians of the day (in the 1930s) preached to the common man. Things got worse over time, and Mr Sivathasan’s solution is to look to India as he often does. I would suggest that Dr Niranjan’s solution is far easier and would result in a quicker solution with no party feeling being left out.

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      Ram:
      It seems this “Dr Niranjan’s solution” you support is a crazy one sided approach of the Tamils tucking their tail between their legs and reaching out to the Sinhalese.
      How do you think the government, and the Sinhala society at large, should reciprocate? Is sticking the giant statue of Nandimitra in Vavuniya a response you support?
      On Sivathasan running to India, do you recognize that it was Indian pressure that resulted in the NPC elections?

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        Niranjan wants to live in peace with his neighbour, whoever he/she is as equals. Sivathasan wants to live in a fantasy land still ruled by a Chola emperor.

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    Now there is a threat to media freedom!

    Are we still living under Thalaivar?

    I heard he died in 2009.

    If you can’t stand opposing views, go to hell.

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      The hell is here. That is why readers use pseudonyms to live freely in hell.

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