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Topic: K.A.Subramaniam Commemoration Volume English Edition
Time: Nov 27, 2022 Sunday 04:30 PM India / Sri Lanka
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Comrade K.A. Subramaniam (KAS)
Commemoration Volume
(A collection of messages and Tributes)
________________________________________
Comrade KAS Commemoration Volume
(A Collection of Messages and Tributes)
Born 05-03-1931
Died: 27-11-1989
K. A. Subramaniam Commemoration Committee
15/1, Power House Road,
Jaffna, Sri Lanka.
Hard Copy Printers: Sri
Parwathi Press, 536, Hospital Road, Jaffna.
The Ceremonial Release of the
Commemoration Volume
Place of Publication: "Sathiamanai, Chulipuram
Date of Publication:
30-12-1989
Book released by Professor. S.
Thillainathan, Head of the Department
of Tamil, University of Peradeniya ,
Sri Lanka
On behalf of K. A. Subramaniam Commemoration Committee
Publisher : சவுத் விஷன் புக்ஸ்; South
Vision Books Chennai, India
Date of
Publication: 18 November 2021 in Kindle
ASIN : B09M8KRQSN Language
: Tamil
File size : 7960 KB Print
length : 272 pages
Book released by Professor
Maunaguru, Former Dean, Head of the Department of Fine Arts, | Eastern University Sri Lanka
On behalf of K. A. Subramaniam
Commemoration Committee
Publisher
: South
Vision Books Chennai, India
Date of Publication: 16 August 2022 in Kindle
ASIN : B0B9YNFV4X Language : English
This ebook License: Creative Commons
Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported and GNU Free Documentation License
(unversioned, with no invariant sections, front-cover texts, or back-cover
texts)
Notes
from this memorial book in 1989...
The commemorative committee is
delighted to announce the release of this memorial book in honor of the
late General Secretary of Sri Lanka
Communist Party (Left), K.A. Subramaniam, on the first month commemoration of his passing. These are just a
few short snippets that commemorate
comrade KAS. But these pages show that the deep and meaningful ideas and assessments
contained within are not mere lip service or formal phrases usually awarded
to a deceased person.
Since a book based on research
is set to follow this issue, and due to the increased cost of printing, the
memorial committee requests a gift of twenty rupees to buy this book despite
the tradition for memorial issues.
An overview of the final tribute
The remains of comrade KAS who passed away at the Kandy Hospital on
27-11-1989 was brought to Jaffna and was placed at the Party Headquarters in
Jaffna city for the tribute of Party comrades before being taken to Sathiamanai in Chulipuram , Sri Lanka for the funeral service on 30-11-1989.
Comrade S.K.Senthivel presided over the funeral on behalf of the Party’s final tribute committee. Twenty-one comrades
and friends addressed the gathering. Family, Party comrades and friends paid
the final floral tribute. There were no observances of religious practices,
caste rituals, old customs etc. at the event. The event was held with the Party’s
revolutionary respect fit for a complete communist militant.
We
would like to extend our sincere thanks...
To
All those who participated in the event to pay their respects despite barriers
posed by the current situation in Jaffna; our thanks also goes to those who sent
their condolences through telegrams and letters. We extend our love and gratitude
to those that provided tributes to be published in this book within the shortest possible time while facing
different circumstances and to the cover page designer and the staff and owner
of Shri Parvati printing who toiled to give shape to this book.
K.A. Subramaniam Commemoration
Committee
15/1, Power House Road, Jaffna, Sri Lanka.
30-December-1989
Table of
Contents
1. Preface by South Vision Books for Comrade
K.A. Subramaniam's Commemoration Volume
3. K.A. Subramaniam ( By Sirima R. D.
Bandaranaike )
4. Comrade K. A. Subramaniam (By S. D.
Bandaranaike )
5. A Dedicated Fighter (By M. HALEEM ISHAK, M. P )
6. A Human Tree has leaned (Poem by R. Siva Rajendran)
7. Rare Politician (By Prof S. Sivasegaram )
8. A Sound Politician (By Justice T. W. RAJARATNAM
)
9. Demise of a noble human (By Poet R. Murugaiyan)
10. Great loss for progressive people (By S.T.N
Nagarathinam’s family)
11. KAS has a great love for humanity (By Prof. S.
Thillainathan)
12. Comrade KAS revered the humanity (By S. Patkunam )
13. Condolence message for Comrade K.A. Subramaniam
( By Kumar Ponnambalam )
14. KAS – A Symbol of Humanity (By SM Gopalaratnam )
15. Literary friend – KAS (By K.Ganesh)
16. A tireless worker - ( By Dr. S.V Seenivasagam)
17. He dedicated his life to grass root people
(By Prof. A. Shanmughathas )
18. Person who raised his voice against genocide of
Tamils (By Comrade A. Seevarathinam )
19. Comrade K.A. Subramaniam– a visionary!
(By M. Markandu )
20. A Humanitarian named KAS (By V.
Divyarajan )
21. Glowing galaxy!
(By National Arts and Literary Association)
22. Up-country Lover (By Sri Lanka Democratic Youth
Front, Hatton.)
23. Determinant idealist (By Krishnapillai Teacher)
24. The one who lived the life of truth (By S.
Alagaratnam )
25. A river of life that has dried up! (Poem by S.
Patkunam)
26. Your Unforgettable Memory (By BS Perumal - Senior
Journalist)
27. Nationalist (By R. Sivakurunathan,
Colombo Dinakaran Chief Editor)
28. Demise of a great guide- (By A.
Ponniah, Trincomalee)
29. Life is a practical thought! – (By K. Jayapalasingam)
30. Despite Demise Surviving Man (By E. Thambiah)
31. Happy Memories - (By K.Natanasabapathy )
32. He had a unique talent- (By Sri Manoharan
Gnanasundaram)
33. Practical Lifestyle - (By Mrs. S. Kailasapathy )
34. Satyavan who lived in Sathiamanai (By
M.Shanmugalingam)
35. A connecting bridge – (By Mariyadas)
36. When will his dream come true? (By A. J.
Kanagaratna )
37. Comrade Subramaniam lived as a communist (By K. Panchalingam,
Navalanga Workers Union.)
38. KAS name will remain- (By Tellippalai K.
Krishnamurthy)
39. Best friend of working people (By Comrade S.
Kanapathipillai - Soodamani)
40. Memories of those days (By Kanpollai people,
Nelliyadi, Karaveddy)
41. Final days with an esteemed father. (By K. Akilan)
42. The language of KAS is also called as "Poiya
Moli” (Un-false language). (By S. Nakuleswaran)
43. We will never forget you! (By Puthur Kalaimathi
Community Center)
44. The Grammar of Mankind (By Kaalaiyady, Pandatharippu,
Panipulam, Santai Youths)
45. Simple Leader (By Mrs. Chandra Navaratnam)
47. Architect of the Younger Generation (by Vadukkottai
K. Gunaratnam)
48. In Your Determined Path…. (By National Arts and
Literary Association - Switzerland branch)
49. A
Grammar for Higher perception (By E. Selvanayagam)
50. In memory of my father… (By S. S. V. Sathiarajan)
A2. About History…..A Poem - By
Professor S. Sivasegaram in memory of K.A. Subramaniam in
1990
A3. Unity and Struggle - By Professor S.
Sivasegaram in memory of K.A. Subramaniam in 1991
A4. A poem in tribute to K.A.
Subramaniam by Poet Sillaiyoor Selvarajan
A6. Reported on 27th November 2012 about 1966
October 21st by N. Raveendran
A7. Some Records in the 25 Years of the Demise of
Comrade KA Subramaniam - Lenin Mathivanam 2013
A8. Commemorate the 25th anniversary of Comrade
KAS and 25 Lessons Learned From Him - S. Thevaraja
Some
Speeches, Statements and Works of K.A. Subramaniam
Anti-colonial wars
and revisionists
The struggle is the only
way for liberation
United Nations an
Imperial Instrument
Khrushchev, the guardian
of the colonial system. The clown's policy killed Lumumba.
B6. Comrade N. Shanmugathasan Letter to KA
Subramaniam in 1973
Photo 91: The original letter of Comrade N.
Shanmugathasan in Tamil written on 4 August 1973
B7. The Editorial for Art and Literary, April 1974,
'Thayagam' (Motherland)
B11. The Editorial for Art and Literary, April
1983, 'Thayagam' (Motherland)
B12. Speech of K.A.
Subramaniam in 1986 May Day Rally ……
B14. Life is a struggle..... Wedding wishes!! (By
K.A. Subramaniam on 7 February 1987)
B16. The Last Editorial for Art and Literary., August
1989.
Photo 11: Comrade KAS at
the campaign for 1982 Sri Lankan national referendum
Photo 12: Comrade S. D. Bandaranaike delivers
his speech at the meeting held in Chunnakam in 1966.
Photo 13: S. D.
Bandaranaike inspecting a house burnt by upper caste in 1969 with Comrade KAS
Photo 15:
Comrade Siva Rajendran during the last tribute to Comrade KAS 1989
Photo 16: Comrade KAS
during the First National Congress of Sri Lanka Communist Party (Left)
1984
Photo 20: Poet R.
Murugaiyan family in Sathiamanai with KAS’s family and neighbors in 1986
Photo 23: All Ceylon Tamil
Congress General Secretary Kumar Ponnambalam with
Photo 24: The Eelanadu
news paper on 2 May 1969 about the
banned May Day procession in 1969
Photo 36: Comrade K.A.
Subramaniam wife Valliammai on 30 November 1989
Photo 40: Copy of the 'Red
Banner’ published by KAS in 1980s
Photo 45: Comrade KAS family with Tholpuram Weaving Center staff in 1972
Photo 47:
A.J.Kanagaratna and SM Gopalaratnam
during the final tribute to KAS in 1989.
Photo 49: Comrade KAS
listening to Professor K. Kailasapathy during the eulogy to Mao
Zedong
Photo 51: Comrade S.
Kanapathipillai - Soodamani addressing during the 1989 Tribute in
Sathiamanai.
Photo 53: Comrade KAS stayed in
this hostel with K. Akilan in Kandy during his final days.
Photo 54: Comrade KA Subramaniam, married to Comrade Valliammai
Asaipillai, on 19 January 1962
Photo 57: Comrade KAS
family during the wedding of Writer S. Yoganathan
Photo 58: Comrade KAS with
Comrade Chinnathurai Navaratnam
Photo 62: Comrades V. Vanniasingam,
Selvam and Ravi
Photo 63: The ‘Thinapathy’
news on 3 May 1969 about the banned May Day procession in 1969
Photo 64: Comrade KAS with his
family in 1969.
Photo 65: Drawn image of Comrade
KAS with his signature.
Photo 66: Comrade KAS meeting with
one of the Chinese Communist Party Leader in Beijing 1979.
Photo 67: Comrade KAS with his wife
and children in 1989.
Photo 69: Professor S.
Sivasegaram with Comrade KAS family in Kandy in 1994.
Photo 70: HLK Karavita was addressing the meeting and Comrade Sivathasan translating.
Photo 71: Professor S.
Sivasegaram addressing in the Comrade KAS’s 22nd Memorial meeting in
2011.
Photo 73: With Comrades K. Daniel and S. Sivathasan
Photo 74: With WA
Dharmadasa, Peter Keuneman and Sarath Muttetuwegama in 1964
Photo 75: With SD Bandaranayake, V.A. Kandasamy and
Subair Elankeeran in 1966
Photo 76: Comrade KAS
family with Comrade N. Raveendran
Family in 1989
Photo 77: With N. Raveendran during
the May Day Rally in 1986
Photo 79: With Comrades S.
Patkunam, Chulipuram Nadarajah and Neervai Ponnaiyan in 1962
Photo 80: With Comrade S.
Thevaraja during their trip from Kandy to
Colombo in 1989
Photo 82: Comrade KAS in
China in 1963
Photo 83: Comrade KAS in
China in 1963
Photo 84: The original
copy from ("தொழிலாளி-THOLILALY”) Worker
1964.05.09
Photo 87: The original
letter of Mrs Parameswari Shanmugathasan Page 1
Photo 88: The original
letter of Mrs Parameswari Shanmugathasan Page 2
Photo 91: The original
letter of Comrade N. Shanmugathasan in Tamil written on 4 August 1973
Photo 95: Comrade K. A. Subramaniam in mid-December
1979 in Kunming
Stone Forest
Photo 97: Comrade KAS with
Prof Kailasapathy .
Photo 98: Comrade K.A.
Subramaniam with his wife just a fortnight after their marriage in 1963
1. Preface by South Vision Books for Comrade K.A.
Subramaniam's Commemoration Volume
Professor George Derwent Thompson (1903 - 1987) of
England pioneered the method of reading Greek classical literature in Marxist
approaches. His book "Aeschylus
and Athens" in 1941 and "Marxism
and Poetry" in 1945 received international attention.
He was a member of the Communist Party of
England and left the party after the Chinese Revolution due to differences of
opinion. However, he continued to write various books enriching Marxism. He was
close to the people until the very end. The rise of China today is the basis of
his predictions.
Professor K.
Kailasapathy is a student of George Thompson. While studying
for his Ph.D., Thomson was the master of ceremonies. Following his style, K.
Kailasapathy submitted a study on the heroic poetry of the Tamils under the
title ‘Tamil
Heroic Poetry’. Oxford University published it in 1968.
When Kailasapathy came
to India on behalf of University of Jaffna,
he was approached by Ira Pandian, a postgraduate student from University of Madras in
Tamil literature. Pandian obtained permission from Kailasapathy to publish his
works. Ira Pandian has published books on literary criticism, poetry, and
comparative literature. In turn, Pandian went to Jaffna, Sri Lanka. He had
contact with the family of Kailasapathy.
When
Comrade K.A. Subramaniam came up with the idea of
publishing a book written by N. Raveendran in Tamil under the
title “Bharathiyin
Meignanam” (Bharathi's Wisdom), he was looking for a
publishing house to publish Kailasapathy's books. K.
Kailasapathy died at that time and his wife Sarva Mangala was
interrogated. He has issued a letter of recommendation. Comrades S. Thevaraja and A. Chandrahasan came to
Tamil Nadu with that letter.
Meanwhile, Ira. Pandian handed over his
publication to M. Balaji. In 1985, when M. Balaji was running the publishing
house under the name 'Chennai Books',
Comrades S. Thevaraja and A. Chandrahasan from Sri
Lanka came to the office and wanted to meet Ira Pandian.
Balaji took them to the nearby Pandian's
house. They handed the letter to Pandian. After reading the letter, Pandian
said, "I do not publish books now. Balaji just publishes. Talk to him. ”
The book was co-authored with the National Arts and Literary Association.
Published by Balaji's 'Chennai Books'. This is the first time in Balaji's
publishing venture that an organization has co-authored a book. It emerged as a
new venture.
The present relationship between South
Vision Books with the “Puthiya
Poomi”, “Puthiya
Neethi” Publishing Houses of Sri
Lanka and the National Arts and Literary Association and
its authors began with the publication of Professor Kailasapathy's books. It
was further developed by the efforts of Comrade K.A. Subramaniam to publish the books
of N. Raveendran.
Currently, the books are growing in the Kindle
format so that Tamils all over the world can read them on their smartphones. We
feel it is an emotional moment that we are currently releasing the
Commemoration Volume of Comrade K.A. Subramaniam on this development
path.
Comrade KAS can be said to be like George
Thompson of Sri Lanka. They both deal with their confidence as they choose to
embark on their play activities. Some within the party have struggled to
advance the debate on it. Today their struggle is proving to be the right one.
Those who stood in front of them have all but disappeared.
Comrade KAS was an enthusiastic nurturer of
the method of studying traditional literature from a Marxist perspective. The
fact that they came in search of contact with the publisher who published K.
Kailasapathy's books reveals the same thing, and the fact that he
sent Comrades S. Thevaraja and A. Chandrahasan in
person to turn Bharathi's wisdom into a book shows his
determination.
Our publication, South Vision Books,
currently incorporates all the latest technologies, converts all books into
e-books, and publishes them on websites, including the Kindle.
These books are paving the way for the world Tamil community to grow.
Comrade Buby, his daughter (Sathiamalar),
and some comrades asked Balaji if the Commemoration Volume, published in 1989
in memory of Comrade K.A. Subramaniam, could be put on the Kindle
website as a book. We gladly started work that we would do right away. It is
currently being released on Kindle as well.
Photo 1: South Vision Books Founding Editor Comrade
M.Balaji , Chief Editor Comrade T. Neethirajan , Comrade Balasukumar, Comrade
N. Raveendran and Comrade N.S. Santhi
are seen while Comrade V. Divyarajan
addressing the Zoom meeting of the Kindle Tamil version Book
released on 27th November, 2021.
Our sincere thanks and gratitude to
Comrades Sri Manoharan Gnanasundaram of Sri Lanka, N.S. Santhi of New Delhi , Neithalini
of USA and Arasi Vickneaswaran of Canada for translating some portions of this
book. We would also like to inform you that “Comrade Maniam” is renamed as
“Comrade KAS” for the benefit of the readers in English. We are delighted to
have this memoir published by South Vision Books.
Founding
Editor
T.
Neethirajan
Chief
Editor
Chennai
India
7
October 2022
2. A Revolutionary Salute
Text of a Tribute paid by Comrade S. K. Senthivel, the new
General Secretary of the Sri Lanka Communist Party (Left) at the Commemoration meeting held on 17-12-1989 at Jaffna
Town to mark the passing away of Comrade K.A. Subramaniam, the former General Secretary of the Party.
Photo 2: Veteran Communist Leader Comrade S. K. Senthivel addresses the
Tribute Meeting on 30th November,
1989, in Sathiamanai . Nitchamam Leader Comrade
Dharmalingam and Santai Leader Comrade Pawaitkili are seen beside him.
Comrades and Friends
I am delivering this
Commemoration Address on behalf of the Party's Central Committee. The Party's General
Secretary, Comrade K. A. Subramaniam, who was loved and respected by all,
departed from our midst on 27-11-1989
Comrade K.A. Subramaniam (1931-1989) devoted his whole life to working for the
country and for the oppressed people of this land. He was a noble Communist
fighter who conducted his struggles on the lines of Marxism - Leninism. He has
set a valuable example to all the communists, the leftists and the progressives
of this land by living in accordance with the maxim 'Simple life, hard
struggle".
Comrade K.A. Subramaniam was born to an orthodox family of farmers in the village
of Kollankaladdy
in the Northern Region. After completing his primary and secondary
education, he joined the K. K. S. Cement
Factory as an Engineering Apprentice. He was 17 then.
During
the early stages of his working life, he came into contact with a Communist
worker in the factory and was inspired by Marxist Philosophy. Consequently, he
began participating in Trade Union activities based on the tenets of communism.
Enraged by this, the Factory Administration, which included white bosses,
dismissed him. However, not worried one bit by the loss of his job, he began to
study Marxism more deeply and resolved to serve the people based on communism.
in
1951 he joined the Communist Youth Movement and thereafter became a member of
the Ceylon Communist Party. As a young Communist, aged 22, the first struggle
Comrade KAS participated in was the island - wide Hartal of 1953.
The Hartal which was
jointly led by the Communist Party and other left parties, was a great success
in the North too and paved the way for the emergence of a class consciousness
and a sense of unity embracing the whole island. Comrade KAS who was inspired
by the revolutionary fervour roused by the Hartal, and who was
in close touch with the then leaders who guided the Communist Movement in the
North leaders like M. Karthigesan, Dr. S.V
Seenivasagam, Pon . Kandaih, A.
Vaithilingam and M. C. Subramaniam became a full - time party worker.
At the beginning, he was
appointed to be in - charge of party work in the K. K. S. Electorate
and was based in Chunnakam. During this
period, the Trade Union in the K. K. S. Cement
Factory was built amidst great difficulties and challenges. Although trade
Union struggles began to make headway, Comrade KAS worked hard to build up the
party outside the factory and to establish youth organisations affiliated with
the party. KAS's weighty labours bore fruit: during this period, several
intellectuals, teachers, students, and government servants were drawn toward
communism.
Photo 3:With Comrades Peter Keuneman, N. Shanmugathasan, Sarath Muttetuwegama, V. Ponnambalam, Premalal Kumarasiri and WA Dharmadasa in 1963
In 1956, as a result of S. W. R. D. Bandaranayake's coming to power, some progressive measures were taken: one such
measure was the takeover of schools. However, the Catholic hierarchy and Tamil
reactionaries joined hands to launch counter-measures. At this juncture, the
Communist Party had to establish a solid campaign to support the takeover. The
people supported this campaign. Comrade K.A. Subramaniam mobilised youths to support this campaign and was at the
forefront of the movement.
In
the latter half of the 1950s, he was chosen as a member of the Party's Northern
Regional Committee and became the Regional Secretary of the Northern Region
Communist Youth Movements.
Photo 4: Comrade KAS at the youth rally with V. Ponnambalam, I.R. Ariyaratnam and M.C. Subramaniam held in Jaffna in 1961
He
used all his skills and talents to build up the Youth Movement as a politically
and organisationally vital force. 1n 1963, the oppressed caste living in Neervely, were brutally
assaulted, and caste fanatics set fire to their houses. The Youth Movement
staged a protest march in Jaffna Town and collected funds for the affected
people. Dr. S.V
Seenivasagam led the protest march
and chaired the Public Meeting held to condemn this brutality. Comrade KAS was
at the forefront of this protest campaign. This was a forerunner of the later
struggles against caste oppression.
From
1963 - 1964, the Ceylon Communist Party split due to the ideological struggle
waged nationally and internationally. At that time, Comrade KAS lined up with
the revolutionary forces guided by Marxism–Leninism - Mao Zedong Thought. Through this ideological struggle, he resolved to take forward
the revolutionary work based on a revolutionary party.
Photo 5:Comrade KAS in the Chunnakam
uprising rally on protesting casteism (21st October 1966) with Comrades DD Perera, V.A. Kandasamy and Dr.
Seenivasagam
After
1964, while being one of the leading members of the Revolutionary Communist
Party, he led the struggle against wrong ideas and practices both within and
outside the party. He joined with other sincere Communists in the party to
oppose those who spouted revolutionary textbook slogans while they possessed a bourgeois parliamentary
outlook. In these struggles, he adopted a balanced ideological stand. At the
same time, he stressed that as the party of the oppressed classes, it should
launch mass struggles centered on their most pressing problems. He took the
lead in getting resolutions to this effect passed in the party. These resulted
in the mass upsurge on 21st October 1966 at Chunnakam. Comrade KAS led the upsurge and was one of those principally
responsible for guiding and taking forward the struggles.
Following
this upsurge, Comrade KAS rendered invaluable service to the party and the
people by providing a correct and balanced leadership to mass struggles that
combined both battles within and outside the confines of the law. As a result,
the broad united front was built to fight untouchability, and with the
principles, practices, and strategy, he helped to formulate a historic,
unforgettable mass organisation. The historic victories of the people at Chankanai -
Nitchamam, Maviddapuram, Madduvil -
Manthuvil, Karaveddy -
Kanpolai were mainly due to Comrade KAS's guidance which combined practical
realism and a balanced ideological outlook. Comrade KAS was confident that the
Communist Party should fight not only caste oppression but also spearhead
struggles in other spheres, and he acted accordingly.
From
1964 to 1971, Comrade KAS was at the forefront of the Trade Union and farmers'
struggles, the youth movement, and the anti-imperialist struggle: all these
activities were centered around the party and the youth movement. The climax of
these activities was reached in 1969 when the UNP Government
banned the May Day Rally and
Meeting. KAS organised a mass procession to protest the ban. He was brutally
assaulted by the police and acquired bleeding injuries. Nevertheless, through
this struggle, he shone forth as an exemplary Communist, manifesting the
revolutionary fervor, courage, dedication, and self-sacrifice characteristic of
Communist militants.
In
the history of the left movement in Sri Lanka, on several occasions, Communist
leaders have slipped up due to political and economic circumstances, deviated
from their ideals, and became inactive. As a result, the enemies of the left
and Communist Movement used these lapses as a trump card against the left
movement. But Comrade KAS, till he breathed his last, lived as a Communist both
in word and deed. This is the legacy he has bequeathed to today's younger
generation and the future generation.
Photo 6: Comrade KAS at the Youth Committee with
S.
Yoganathan, I.R.
Ariyaratnam and Neervai Ponnaiyan held
in Jaffna in 1962
In
the 1970s, Comrade KAS played a decisive role in the struggle against Wrong
ideologies and practices within the party. At a time when in defining the
stages of the revolution in Sri Lanka and the formation of a united front in
the new democratic revolutionary step, dogmatism and sectarianism held sway
within the Party, Comrade K.A. Subramaniam waged a disciplined, ideological
struggle, within the party, against these trends. But at no stage did he form
clandestine groups within the party to violate the organization's rules. On the
contrary, he abided by the majority's decision even when they waged ideological
struggles based on principles.
After
1964, several hundreds of members and carders who had joined the party because
it was a Revolutionary Party became dissatisfied with the Party leadership and began to
quit the party in 1972 and became isolated individuals. Yet, KAS joined the
comrades who decided to stay in the party and were confident they could build
up the party anew, on the correct lines.
Comrade K.A. Subramaniam and the other comrades who continued to stay in the Party
which had Comrade N. Shanmugathasan as its
General Secretary, were forced to change their position in 1978 at a special
Party Conference summoned in the middle of 1978. However, a full report
incorporating correct ideological, political, and organisational standpoints
was presented for debate under the leadership of Comrade KAS. Unfortunately, the report was not
accepted, and arbitrary decisions were made. In this background, Party members
who had assembled from various parts of the island decided to form a separate
party. Comrade KAS accepted the proposal wholeheartedly and came forward to
implement it resolutely.
Photo 7: Comrade KAS at the Rally
with Comrades S. Navaratnam, E. Selvanayagam, K. Panchalingam and S. K.
Senthivel held in Jaffna in 1980
On
3rd July, l978, Party members held a Conference at Jaffna. At that Conference,
it was decided that the new party should be named Sri Lanka Communist Party (left) until a Party Congress was held. The Conference chose an interim
Organizing Committee, and Comrade KAS was elected Secretary of the Committee.
Comrade KAS deployed all his skills to build up the party as a strong
organisation and to make it take root among the working people. From 1978 till
the early part of 1984, past faults were weeded out through retrospection and
introspection, and the path was laid for the party's ideological, political,
and organisational consolidation.
From
the bottom upward, they have adhered to the principle of democratic centralism.
Dogmatism, sectarianism, extremism, and all the principles and practices rooted
in a non-dialectical outlook were criticised and rejected, and laid down
guidelines for the assessment of united fronts. As for the National
Question, sterile positions were
denied and formulated a clear standpoint. Reviewed the national and
international situations and adopted correct principles corresponding to
contemporary reality. On this basis, the first National Congress of the Sri Lanka Communist Party (left) was held on the 2nd and 3rd September
1984. The Central Committee elected at this Congress chose Comrade KAS as the
General Secretary. As a leader, he served the party and people with honor and
dignity until the end of his life.
Comrade
KAS played the central role in formulating the party's standpoint on the National
Question. The sterile views
adopted by the old party concerning Tamils as a nation and the right to
self-determination were rejected. Instead, a principled, balanced approach
incorporating a long-term perspective was adopted. Comrade KAS emphasised that
the National Question
could not be solved on a hurried petit-bourgeois basis and that the demand for
separation was impracticable. At the same time, he did not fail to stress that
a relentless struggle against majority chauvinism was inseparable from the
national liberation struggle. Through the Party's Central Committee, he
repeatedly stressed that military activities would not provide an interim
solution to the ethnic problem and urged the need for an equitable political solution
based on tripartite talks (the Tamil militants, the Sri Lankan State, and
India).
Photo 8: Comrade KAS seen with Chinese vice
premier Comrade Chen Yi
during his trip to the People's Republic of China in 1963.
After
1983, when Sri Lanka's ethnic problem became complicated in various ways, India
went from being a non-partisan, friendly neighbor to establishing its regional
hegemony using the ethnic problem as a tool. As a result, comrade KAS very
strongly opposed India.
He
emphasized the need for all patriotic, democratic forces to unite and
resolutely oppose India's hegemonism and safeguard our country's independence
and sovereignty. Comrade KAS was responsible for imbuing into the minds of his
party members a conviction that they should be ready to sacrifice anything for
the nation's sake, the welfare of the people, and the liberation of the
workers. He firmly believed it was meaningless to speak empty slogans or prize
hollow honors.
Today,
the people of this country, including the Tamils, are experiencing untold
misery. Through the party, KAS stressed the need for an alternative government
that could provide a minimum solution. On this basis, he supported the
candidature of Mrs. Srima Bandaranaike the candidate of the popular, democratic forces at the last Presidential Election . He played a significant role in
her Jaffna campaign. Through this, the way Communist paved for the unity of and
mutual understanding between the progressive, democratic, and patriotic forces.
Comrade K.A. Subramaniam had very high regard for proletarian internationalism. He
worked eagerly to foster the ties and links between Communist fraternal
parties. Comrade KAS always stressed the necessity for our party to have direct
relations with the Chinese Communist Party and Socialist China. With a clear
vision, he strove to establish ties with other fraternal parties and socialist
countries. In 1963, 1967, 1975, and 1979, he visited the People's Republic of
China, and in 1967 he visited Albania as a
member of the party, youth movement, and trade union delegations, which
undertook goodwill missions to these countries.
Photo 9: Comrade KAS delivers his speech at the Youth
Conference Kongresi I 5-te I BRPSH held in Albania in 1967.
Comrade K.A. Subramaniam helped to bring out Party newspapers like the “Sempathahai” , ' Red Banner' and 'Puthiya Boomi’ and advised,
which helped to win these papers the esteem of the people, and contributed to
their growth. Moreover, his guidance and advice greatly benefited the
functioning of the 'Thesiya Kalai Illakiya Peravai' ( National Arts and Literary Association ) and its organ “Thayakam”, which
rendered excellent service to the cause of art and literature.
Comrade
KAS was a committed Communist militant and a worthy leader. At the same time,
outside the party, he had several friends among the progressive, democratic,
and patriotic forces he respected. He considered advice on how best to use the
talents and skills of learned men, educationists, artists, writers, and intellectuals
for the people's liberation and social change.
Comrades and Friends,
Comrade K.A. Subramaniam dedicated his life to work for the welfare of the country
and the liberation of the oppressed people. The Central Committee of the Sri Lanka Communist Party (Left) declares, with a sense of inner satisfaction, that Comrade
KAS was a worthy Communist Leader who self-effacingly poured all his talents
into service for the people. The Party dips its red flag to pay a revolutionary
tribute to a selfless Comrade who has passed away.
Photo 10: The police poised to baton charge the
banned May Day procession and arrested Comrade KAS in Jaffna in 1969.
The Central
Committee and the Party firmly resolve to carry forward, despite all obstacles,
the revolutionary legacy left behind by Comrade KAS through his life and
guidance and to safeguard the rich experiences garnered on the basis of Marxism–Leninism - Mao Zedong Thought.
The Central Committee conveys
its sympathies and Condolences to Comrade KAS's wife Valliammai and the
children Sathiarajan, Sathiamalar and Satheakeerthy who shared the trials,
tribulations and triumphs of Comrade K.A. Subramaniam and made it possible for
him to lead, both in word and deed, the life of a Communist militant and leader
and thus serve both the Party and the people.
CENTRAL COMMITTEE
Sri Lanka Communist Party (Left)
15/1, Power House Road,
Jaffna, Sri Lanka. 17 December
1989.
________________________________________
India – Sri Lanka treaty did not involve the
concerned people’s representatives; It was between the two governments, hence
it was not a holistic one and had many practical problems. Not only did it fail
at solving the problem but it further generated new crisis. The India-Sri Lanka
treaty did not bring solution to ethnic tension yet, some advantageous aspects
in that can be used to arrive at a political solution to ethnic problems in Sri
Lanka.
What is current crisis in Sri Lanka? (12/10/1989
from Party Manifesto)
________________________________________
3.
K.A.
Subramaniam (
By Sirima
R. D. Bandaranaike )
Photo 11: Comrade KAS at the campaign for 1982 Sri Lankan national
referendum
with Sirima R. D. Bandaranaike held
in Chankanai .
I am glad to have this opportunity of
paying my tribute to a man who had dedicated his life to the cause of his
people, by making a contribution to the souvenir to be published on the
occasion of the 31st day of his death. We are aware that he has
rendered great service to the cause of the left movement in Sri Lanka. His aim
was to bring about unity and understanding among all races living in Sri Lanka.
I must especially mention the fact that he
gave me his full support to organise my presidential election campaign in the
North in spite of the fact that he was not in the best of health. His sudden
death is a great loss for the cause for which he worked and lived.
Sri Lanka Freedom Party offers its
deepest condolences to the members of his family and his party.
12-12-1989 Colombo
Leader of the Opposition
_______________________________________
"What is the
problem of the Tamil people? We stand here with all the forces fighting for a
solution, not for our own ambitions or anything else. We hope that Sirima Bandaranaike will
try to get rid of this Peace Indo-Sri Lanka Accord deal
and the Indian Army."- K.A
Subramaniam 1988 Jaffna / Pandatharippu Hindu College Play Grounds
Mrs Bandaranake
public meeting in Jaffna during IPKF period in 1988 by Sri Lanka Communist
Party (Left) Part 3. ________________________________________
4. Comrade K. A. Subramaniam (By S. D. Bandaranaike )
Photo 12: Comrade
S. D. Bandaranaike
delivers his speech at the meeting held in Chunnakam in
1966.
I had the privilege of knowing, Comrade K.A. Subramaniam the
General Secretary of the Sri Lanka communist party (left) a man whose selfless
dedication to the betterment of man , for which he had devoted all his life
Subramaniam was a great man whom I had known closely.
It would be appropriate to state that his struggle for National
Unity in Sri Lanka was always upper - most in all his work. Although he has
passed away, I believe his spirit will always live in our minds. The Sri Lankan
people will not forget him.
Yakkala S. D.
Bandaranaike
Sri Lanka Progressive Front
________________________________________
“Former Member of
Parliament SD
Bandaranayake who was a voice of
democratic and progressive forces in Sri Lanka and an upholder of positions
supportive of the left passed away on 3rd June 2014 at the age of 98 years. The
news of his departure saddens the democratic, progressive and left forces and
toiling masses of Sri Lanka.
Photo 13: S. D. Bandaranaike inspecting a house
burnt by upper caste in 1969 with
Comrade KAS
SD
Bandaranayake who was elected to parliament
in 1956 remained a consistent democratic progressive, a supporter of the left,
and a courageous activist inside and outside parliament. When members of
the UNP led by JR Jayewardene went on a march to Kandy in 1957 to oppose the Bandaranayake‐Chelvanayakam
Pact, claiming that the agreement designed to grant
Tamils their rights was a secessionist move, SD
Bandaranayake took the initiative to
mobilize people to obstruct the march at Imbulgoda on the Colombo‐Kandy road in
the Gampaha electorate and force the UNP to retreat to Colombo. SD
Bandaranayake himself lay across the
road as an act of protest.
During the struggles in the
North in the 1960s against caste oppression and untouchability, SD
Bandaranayake spoke in support of the
struggles in parliament as well as visited the North to personally express
solidarity with the struggling masses. At the time, during a parliamentary
debate he dared to quote Lenin that “the parliament was a den of thieves” and
declare that the Parliament of Ceylon too was a den of thieves. As a result he
was forcefully removed from the House of Representatives and suspended from
parliament for two weeks. He always supported the people and their just
struggles. As a result he was arrested in 1971 and detained for more than two
years. He spoke firmly in support of granting the Tamil people their just
rights and campaigned for the rights of workers, peasants and plantation
workers.
As a result of his above
political stand, he was a long standing friend of the Party who continued to maintain his bond with the Party. In a context in
which racism and religious fanaticism are wreaking havoc in the south of the
Country, his departure is a loss that very much saddens the Party and the
people of the country. The Party expresses its deepest condolences and heartfelt sorrow to
his wife, children and other members of the family and to the people of
Gampaha.”
- SK Senthivel in 2014
________________________________________
5. A Dedicated Fighter (By M. HALEEM ISHAK, M. P )
A dedicated fighter for the
rights of the working class the late Mr. K.A. Subramaniam will
undoubtedly be long remembered for the invaluable services rendered by him to
all sections of the people for a period of several decades.
As the General Secretary of
the Sri Lanka
Communist Party (left) Mr. Subramaniam had to
carry on an arduous struggle in a political arena where self centered leaders
had always been attempting to bamboozle the predominant Population for their
own class interests. But the courageous struggle he carried on was able to earn
much fame through the manner in which he approached the problems. His was an
objective attitude towards the struggle which called for much valour and
vigour.
Photo 14: Comrade KAS at the presidential election
campaign with Sirima R. D. Bandaranaike held in Jaffna in 1988
Being an enlightened and
exemplary communist he was basically a genuine patriot and true friend all down
- trodden people. He was a leading progressive personage well known among all
who were fighting for a common cause. His political outlook had always
surpassed those of most other Tamil leaders. He had a wider perspective of the
struggle of the people, of Sri Lanka. The urgent priority was to achieve
national emancipation of the people. Community and even class interest however
much they figured high in the political agenda had to take secondary place for
such struggle to be triumphant.
It was with this view in mind
that he at the last "1988 Sri
Lankan presidential election "
openly and vigorously supported the candidature of Mrs. Srimavo
Bandaranaike the nominee of the S. L. F.
P the party that he correctly adjudged to be
possessing potentiality over all other parties to defeat anti people manoeuvres
of reactionary forces.
It is an undisputed right of
the people regardless of many social divisions to fight together hand in hand
as one formidable force for their emancipation and consolidation of their
freedom sovereignty and independence. It was with this philosophy that made
our K.A. Subramaniam a
renowned politician and a progressive fighter he was. It is a laudable gesture
on the part of the commemoration committee to put out a souvenir on the
eventful life of this worthy leader of the people.
M. HALEEM ISHAK, M. P.
77, Dr. N. M. Perera Mawatha ,
COLOMBO - 8
6.
A Human Tree has leaned (Poem
by R. Siva Rajendran)
Photo 15: Comrade Siva Rajendran during the last
tribute to Comrade KAS 1989
This
human tree has not fallen.
It has leaned its head.
Dedicating its
Leaves, roots and flowers,
Everything including itself
To this forest of the masses,
This human tree has not fallen.
It has leaned.
The fertile seeds from
its ripened fruits,
Soaked in the sweat and
and drenched in the blood
Of the farmers and
labourers across the nation
Have now sprouted roots and are yeilding.
While many were gathering oil
Under the pretense of
buring,
This human tree continued to burn
Despite the absence of
oil.
Burning itself
While creating numerous volcanoes
To keep the flames
going into the future,
This human tree has put its head down
And has slightly leaned.
Our hill-country is
one-of-a-kind-
Full of
Deceptions in the name
of God,
Failures in the name of
trade unions,
And now,
Destruction in the name
of movements.
Our up-country is one-of-a-kind.
Hard to touch,
And harder to walk in.
This camaraderie
Continued to spread
roots,
Walked until exhausted,
Gathered masses from
all four directions,
And finally wished to collapse and lean in,
In the very soil of the
upcountry,
To rest, to get rid of
the exhaustion.
Searching the darkness,
We thought we were
looking for wisdom,
In a directionless deep
jungle, blindfolded in black fabric.
The great camaraderie
that directed us
With emotions,
Towards the sublime
path of loving the working people,
Has leaned his physical
self, resting.
We laid asleep in the
drizzle.
He shook us awake, drew
us towards this “Sathiamanai”
And taught us the
truths.
The great comrade’s
Relentlessly
hardworking, tired
Physical self
Has leaned in rest.
Comrades,
This Comrade
loved the people.
Till there is humanity
in this world,
His emotions will
continue.
Wherever the lights are
lit
for the new-born dawns,
His teachings will be
the morning star,
Lighting the path.
In our hill-country
filled with
Beatings and tramplings
and
Walkways that go
through Jungles of corpses,
Tomorrow, there will be a bloom
Of the up-country roses.
They will remain open,
in the colour of his skin,
fertilized by the
sublime feelings
Of the great comrade
Who is leaning in rest.
The ambitions that took
shape
Within this sublime
comrade
Who loved the working
people
Will reach great
heights.
Until then,
Let the Comrade rest
His physical self.
Come on comrades!
Let’s conquer this world.
Let’s constantly sow
the emotions
Of the comrade
Who gave up his entire
life
For our lives.
Let’s beat our
thunderous war drums
Until we achieve
commonality.
Let’s unite and bring
our shoulders together
So that the left communist party
Will raise the energy of the youth.
Let’s carefully spread
out the seeds
Of the left communist
party
That was cherished by
the Comrade
Like the apple of his
eyes.
Let’s pave way for
dawns,
By protecting
dearly, the grand party trees
That have already grown
so well
Across the country.
Let’s continue to
follow the path of Comrade,
This is not chaos,
But only the beginning!
R. Siva Rajendran (Dean, Batticaloa
National College of Education)
Photo 16: Comrade KAS during the First National
Congress of Sri Lanka Communist Party (Left) 1984
7. Rare Politician (By Prof S. Sivasegaram )
It requires extraordinary
courage to take political stances which are not acceptable to people in power
and to people who speak only the language of guns. It takes far more than
strength of will to defy the majority Chauvinism in defence of the minority
without falling victim to narrow rationalist sentiments and following the
emotional tide. K. A. Subramaniam, the General Secretary of the Sri Lanka
communist party (left), who died on 27-November-1989
after some months of serious illness was a rare politician in the context of
Sri Lankan politics amidst ethnic conflict.
Photo 17: 25th Anniversary of
Comrade KAS, Prof. Jayadeva
Uyangoda
delivered the Commemoration Lecture titled “Irreconcilability
of Reconciliation. Reconciliation after War: Thinking beyond Solitudes”. Summary translations were provided in
Tamil by Prof S Sivasegaram.in 2014
He started his political life
as a young communist and remained loyal to the Marxist Leninist line from his
early days in the party, through the major split in 1964 between the pacifist
parliamentarist section and the proletarian revolutionary section of the Ceylon
Communist Party (CCP), up to the very
end of his life. The splits which weakened the CCP and the subsequent
splintering of the Marxist - Leninist section because of the opportunism of the
leadership did neither dent his confidence in the communist cause nor weaken
his resolve in taking the struggle forward.
He had remarkable
organisational skills and leadership qualities, but he never sought a position
within the party and preferred to work for the cause with dignity and
determination. It was with much reluctance that he accepted the position of General
Secretary of the CPSL (left) a few years ago when the young and enthusiastic members of
the party wanted a person with experience and maturity to lead the party during
a period of national political crisis.
He displayed a sense of
balance and objectivity in dealing with problems small and large. He was in the
front line in the struggles against exploitation and oppression and when senior
party leaders ran for cover during police attack on a May day demonstration in the
late 1960's, K.A. Subramaniam refused
to desert and was brutally attacked with batons.
He was among the few leaders
of the movement against caste oppression in the north who acted to ensure that
the struggle was directed against the handful of oppressors and not allowed to
develop into a caste war. This clarity of vision was again evident in the line
taken by the CPSL (left) on the National Question, where the CPSL (left) backed the struggle for liberation while firmly rejecting
separatism as the only solution.
Photo 18: 24th Anniversary of Comrade
KAS, presided by Prof S Sivasegaram. Comrade Sanjay Singhvi, Coordinator, Asian
Coordination Committee of the International Coordination of Revolutionary
Parties and Organizations (ICOR) and Head of International Affairs, Communist Marxist-Leninist
Party of India in 2013
K.A. Subramaniam always
believed in uniting all progressive forces against the oppressors and rejected
sectarianism His ability to mobilise progressive forces with political
differences was demonstrated on several occasions and particularly in the
highly successful election rally in support of the SLFP candidate at the last presidential election, organized by
the CPSL (left) in the north.
He never believed in taking
advantage of individuals or organisations or using others to achieve his ends.
To him politics was a matter of unity and struggle, both principled. His death
has robbed the Tamil community and the progressive forces of Sri Lanka of a
sincere, humble and honest revolutionary political leader.
- Prof S.
Sivasegaram. 6-December-1989
8. A Sound Politician (By Justice T. W. RAJARATNAM )
At the
early stages of my practice as an Advocate and thereafter, Subramaniam had
me retained in the most difficult cases filed against Workers and Trade
Unionists. It was at a time when the Workers and Trade Unionists were harassed
both by the State and Society.
Photo 19: TWR’s son T.C. Rajaratnam represented
(for free of cost) in the High Court of Colombo for the cases filed by the
Attorney-General of Sri Lanka, against KAS’s son Subramaniam
Sathiarajan alias Meeran
Master,
while he was detained under the Prevention of Terrorism Act and
Emergency Regulations from 1984 to 1987.
K.A. Subramaniam was, however, an
inspiring leader and we hardly lost a single case. The last case appeared for
him was a Caste case at Chavakachcheri connected with the Temple Entry.
The High Class Tamils were out to poison the wells and the police were helping
them to prevent the depressed classes from going into the Temple yard.
The depressed classes organised themselves
and restrained the police from doing this foul act. They even assaulted the
police. It was a sensational case and the high class interests were
demonstrating outside the Court. We won the case. Subramaniam as a true leader
had prepared the case so well inspite of all the disadvantages in the Caste
ridden area.
K.A. Subramaniam was well read in
politics and had his own political philosophies which he often shared with me.
We had a few political differences but that did not prevent us from meeting and
having useful discussions.
Subramaniam was
a very affectionate friend and never failed to meet me when he came to Colombo,
had the opportunity to meet his son. He was a family friend, a sound politician
and a great gentleman. I share the grief over his death with the members of his
family and his friends.
K.A. Subramaniam was patriot, a humanist
and a lover of people. He was the Champion of the oppressed and throughout his
life he carried on a relentless Crusade against the oppressors.
He has fought his battles valiantly and his
life has been a Victory over death.
Colombo.
. T. W. RAJARATNAM
________________________________________
"A
man should not be afraid of death. In the event of war. I think the best way to
die is on the battlefield. You fight the enemy to the finish, and if you are
hit by a bullet, that's If there is no war. You work hard, very hard, until you
are drained of your last ounce of strength and drop dead” - Zhou
Enlai
________________________________________
9. Demise of a noble human (By Poet R. Murugaiyan)
Photo 20: Poet R.
Murugaiyan
family in Sathiamanai with KAS’s family and neighbors in 1986
Mr. K.A. Subramaniam has
passed away. K.A. Subramaniam
was a noble human, and people affectionately called him ‘Comrade.’ He had
ambitious goals, which he revered more than his life. He was more than a thinker,
an achiever who worked relentlessly, day and night, for the principles he stood
for.
He had dedicated his entire life to the
liberation of oppressed and depressed people. He played a pivotal role in the
anti-caste movement. The courage, energy and enthusiasm K.A.
Subramaniam expressed during those crucial times were
exemplary and these traits are worth to be remembered in the history.
I have got an opportunity only in the recent
past, to get acquainted with him. Yet even in these short five to six years, I
have learned a lot about his innate good qualities. He had clarity in his
thoughts and was skillful at prioritizing and deligating his works.
Recently he was interested in publishing
pamphlets and books that detailed (Marxist) ideologies. K.A.
Subramaniam also envisioned organising regular seminars and
research conferences. Even when indisposed, his thoughts were engulfed with
planning the party's future and its growth.
The passing of such a great leader gives immense
grief to us. Our sincere condolences to his family and friends.
Neerveli South R. Murugaiyan
10.
Great loss for progressive
people (By S.T.N Nagarathinam’s family)
Photo 21: Standing With S.T. Nagarathinam (Left) , V. Dharmalingam (Right) during the Soviet Communist Party
delegation to Sri Lanka
We have known late comrade K.A. Subramaniam from1956 since he was
working as a full-time worker in the Chunnakam branch
party office. He was instrumental in bringing the Soviet cultural group that
visited the Chunnakam office in Sri Lanka in 1957.
Subsequently, he played a significant role in the growth of the Communist party
in Sri Lanka. In 1966, he led a massive protest against caste atrocity in Chunnakam.
We witnessed his fighting spirit, courage, and determination during this
protest.
Subsequently,
he took part personally in all the protests organised by late S.T.N.
Nagarathinam for demanding rights and engaged in all activities with genuine
interest and intention. Despite being born in a “dominent community”, he was empathetic
towards the struggle faced by our people. As he was closely associated with
late Comrade S.T.N. Nagarathinam, our families also came closer. His
demise is not only a loss for his family, but it is a significant loss for all
progressive thinkers who have a love for humanity—our sincere condolences to
the bereaved family.
Thanks
Family
of Comrade S.T. Nagarathinam’s family, Chunnakam.
11.
KAS has a great love for
humanity (By Prof. S. Thillainathan)
Photo 22: Comrade S.K. Senthilvel shares
the stage with Prof. S. Thillainathan and Comrade K.
Thanikasalam (Chief editor of Thayagam magazine) on
the occasion of 23rd anniversary of Comrade K.A.Subramaniam
We lost Comrade K.A. Subramaniam, but as Bharathiyar challenged,
“We searched for material comforts and to
satiate our hunger
Engaged in menial activities and gossips
At the end of the day, feel sad because
of our suffering
We do hurt many by our actions
And this become routine till we become
old
Then became prey for our destiny
Do you think, my life too would end
like any other aimless wanderer? ”
He left with the same question. Comrade K.A. Subramaniam led a selfless life and
he not only loved his own country and its people but loved the entire humanity
to which he dedicated his life.
He
strived tirelessly in liberating the oppressed and exploited people. Even in
the face of repressions, ethnic tensions and life threatening situations,
Comrade did not give up and fearlessly persisted and stood by his principles,
nourished the path that cherished humanity.
His determination and sacrificing nature are
reminiscent of the words of English philosopher Bertrand
Russel who said that the nationalists always talks about
sacrificing their life for the nation and not about taking away the lives of
others.
Even during times when people used politics to
aggrandise power, position and popularity, Comrade did not incline to such
interests; instead, he was interested in a kind of politics that would result
in welfare for peasants, workers, and the poor. To strengthen that sort of
political motives, he willingly underwent innumerable sufferings, ignored his
acute illness and neglected his health, endured hard ships and embraced the
people with generosity to integrate them in his objectives. His constant
encouragement for the efforts of people was one of his most popular traits.
Even when he realised that death was fast approaching, he had expressed the
prominent urge to complete the actions that had been initiated.
His
is a loss that is not only limited to his family, friends and relatives. Our
sincere condolences to all who bereave his loss.
_______________________________________
The sky, mountain, land, river, tree, leaves,
flowers will wilt away and in the cold melt and disappear
One could see the merit of the labour and awaken
The severity of the cold may go away in the deep
valley and get disappear
Don’t give up thinking that the atrocities like
these may raise its heads
But have a hope that these atrocities will
definitely one day it would get demolished one day.
Thanks for ‘Sepannitta
Padimangal’
_______________________________________
12.
Comrade KAS revered the
humanity (By S. Patkunam )
Being
opportunistic is the mark of today’s politics. In such situation, he was not
depend on the opportunities that come on his way but voluntarily created new
opportunities to liberate the marginalised people and he dedicated his entire
life for their wellbeing. That great friend had passed away.
He
was not making empty promises and not the one who would hide when actions are
expected. He was always seen in the forefront of any struggles that aimed to
demand the rights of marginalised people. While leading the movement, he guided
the people in their whole journey of protest and did not ever try to be away
from them. Comrade K.A. Subramaniam, organised and led anti-caste
movements, clarified their thoughts philosophically, followed strategic
techniques to handle the agitation, guided the movements throughout and gave
his entire life to win collective goals and to uproot all the residuals of
dynastic powers. He did not slanderously use the idea of egalitarianism (Socialism).
His thoughts, talk and actions were with full of integeration had been directed
towards the liberation of oppressed people.
Comrade
KAS had not only respected humanism but also well aware of those who opposed
it. He neglected his health though he was suffering but always thoughtful of
curing the social evils that affected our society. Even in the state of
suffering in bed, he used to always enquire with so much concern about the
political situation in the country. He was worried about ever changing and
unstable political stands that affected people very badly. Politics used to
exploit people but Comrade KAS had exploited his self and his family for
the sake of people’s politics. This is very rare and now he has taken rest.
The
sacrifice flame that has been living in the Sathiamanai was
put off now. It is great loss for people who love humanism. It is huge loss for
the society rather than for his own family. Our sincere condolences to his
wife, children and family members who stood always by his side to support
immensely his goals. Without him the path he traversed looks very much
deserted. He cannot be replaced by anyone.
With
heavy and saddened heart,
S. Patkunam ( Chief
Secretary, North Eastern Province, Sri Lanka)
_______________________________________
“If we want to try to understand the
contradiction between us and the enemy and the contradiction between us and the
people, we should first of all clarify who are the people? And who are our
enemy?”
_______________________________________
13.
Condolence message for
Comrade K.A. Subramaniam ( By Kumar Ponnambalam )
Photo 23: All
Ceylon Tamil Congress
General Secretary Kumar Ponnambalam with
Comrades
S.Thevaraja and KAS at the
presidential election campaign held in Jaffna in 1988
Comrade K.A. Subramaniam was born in Kollankalatti in
the northern region of the country and had his education in various
places in this country and became a member of the Communist Party and added
value and repute to the party. I am obliged to speak about his merits,
commitment and genuineness.
He was not only a communist but an
abode of principles. When we heard about his demise on 27/11/1989, I and our
party comrades were shell shocked and deeply affected by our loss.
He had started his career as a
communist. In those days, he had shown great interest in the welfare of the
labourers in the Cement factory. This led to the loss of his
job.
He respected others as his own self.
He was much revered and popular among workers and common people for his
selfless service and generous attitude. Because of his spirited and continuous
participation in protests and workers’ movements he had come under constant
watch of the government and the police and he was physically attacked, which
had affected health badly. This the principal reason behind his death and our
grief.
He served the party and welfare work
without any bias along caste or religion. He was made as a General Secretary of
the Communist party of Sri Lanka. He mingled with everyone with ease and had
the ability to explain socialist concepts and principles in a most erudite
manner. The growth, establishment and day-to-day functioning of the party were
his primary concerns. Losing such a worker and friend is a great loss not only
for the Tamil society but for the whole country.
Comrade K.A. Subramaniam had served the country
not only without any bias along caste and religion but he did not waver in the name
of ethnicity or regionalism either. K.A. Subramaniam's position in the 1988 presidential
election is a good example of how he worked
not only for irrespective of their caste and religion but also for against
their ethnic and regional differences. Despite the fact of the threat to
hold public meetings in the Northern Province, he fearlessly organized and led
a massive campaign rally for Sirimavo Bandaranaike, even at the risk of his own life and that of his family. This is an evidence of his determination and resolve he had on
principles that he believed in. Losing such a great heroic leader and is an
immense loss and an aggrieved moment for the entire Tamil community. Let us
come together to share the grief along with the bereaving family members during
this time and pray for his soul.
Kumar Ponnambalam General Secretary All Ceylon
Tamil Congress
_______________________________________
"What
is the problem of the Tamil people? We stand here with all the forces fighting
for a solution, not for our own ambitions or anything else. We hope that Sirima R. D. Bandaranaike will try to get rid of this
Peace Indo-Sri Lanka Accord deal and the Indian Army."- K.A Subramaniam 1988 Jaffna / Pandatharippu Hindu College Play Grounds
Mrs Bandaranake public meeting in Jaffna
during IPKF period in 1988 by Sri Lanka Communist Party (Left) Part 1.
_______________________________________
14.
KAS – A Symbol of Humanity (By SM Gopalaratnam )
Comrade KAS, in his entire life fought
for the freedom and emancipation of workers and agricultural labourers.
Struggled and succeeded in many struggles for the relief of the oppressed
people and for which he travelled far and wide in Sri Lanka. Above all, he
stuck to his principles and convictions without any compromise yet he respected
and maintain friendly relationship with people who had differed from his views.
This is the proof of how KAS had
successfully led workers protests and movements in spite of government’s
repression and factionalism within Left movements.
An incident
Don’t remember the year.* The government had denied permission for May Day
procession. Trade union with K.A . Subramaniam as regional General Secretary
had announced that May Day procession would be held. Police had plan to trap
KAS. KAS went underground.
Photo 24: The Eelanadu news paper on 2 May 1969 about the banned May Day procession in 1969
Police made great efforts to find the
details regarding origin and culmination of procession. At that time it
was R.Sundaralingam was the northern region
police officer, who had friendly and respectful relation with media and public.
He was friendly to me. He believed the media would be of great help in controlling
the crime in northern region. I maintain similar opinion. I helped in this
through my journalism.
The police officer was quite aware of
my close friendship with Comrade KAS. That particular May Day from
morning to evening around 4.30, the police officer R.Sundaralingam had frequently telephoned
me to enquire about the procession details. I had informed in the morning
itself that I had not met KAS for two days and I don't have any information
about the procession. He was not ready to believe me. He kept calling me
repeatedly.
At the same time, around noon Comrade
KAS had called me from somewhere. When I asked from where he was calling, he
replied ‘nearby’ only. When I asked when the procession will be held, he
replied ‘in the evening’. When I asked about where from it will start? He
disconnected on saying ‘will tell you later’. KAS who called me 4’o clock
again, asked if the SP had enquired. I replied yes. Saying ‘will contact later’
he disconnected.
Photo 25: Comrade KAS leads the banned May Day
procession in 1969 and the police poised to baton charge the banned May Day procession in
1969
KAS was ready to trust me in this
issue. Not only me, but he was not ready to trust anyone when it came to the
matters related to protests. At 5 in the evening, KAS briefly called to say
‘come to Windsor theatre and also send people there’ and disconnected.
People who were watching movie in
Rajah Theatre, came out in large numbers like a swarm and began to raise
slogans and follow KAS who was marching ahead with the red flag in the
prominent streets of Jaffna. Police were dumbfounded and that was unique trick
of KAS with his burning desire for achieving his goal.
It was looking like a battle field
in Gurushethram and it seemed like the
massive gathering would go reckless on either side in that crisis.
Eelanadu the only daily from Jaffna which
very carefully maintained neutral position while releasing news. However, both
sides (public and the government side) were condemned us. One night, a hand
bomb was thrown on the Eelanadu office. It was less noisy and
there was no causality reported.
Few days after, I met KAS. We were
discussing about the protest in Maavittapuram.
I asked him that if his people thrown hand bomb on the Eelanadu office. He said ‘I swear’
Gopu, we did not do that. We don’t do those things to you. Humanity in KAS
responded like that.
# Another incident, didn’t remember
date and month of the happening
The police were looking for KAS
fervently. We received the news that KAS was absconding. Two days after I
received a letter, which says “if you come to this place, you can meet me”. It
was KAS’s letter. Did not disclose to anyone. I went to that particular place.
KAS was alone in deep thoughts walking, tying his hand back.
Both of us were discussing nearly for
half an hour. He did not have good food for some days. For two or three days,
went and delivered food for him from my house.
After
many years in 1987, when the office of “EEZHA MURASU” daily where I was working as an
editor and its printing machines were bombed by the Indian Peace Keeping
Forces, the daily “EEZHA MURASU” was produced and released from
places like Tholpuram and Chankanai.
When ‘EEZHA MURASU’ was being produced from Tholpuram, KAS had sent word through a
friend E.R. Thiruselvam to come and meet him at
his place. After reaching there, he requested me to stay in his house. ‘I am an
editor in the journal which supports the LTTE and you are a
supporter of China backed Communist Party’ if both of us together caught by Indian
peace Keeping Forces, what would be our fate?. Hearing these, KAS had
graceful laugh.
Photo 26: A.J.Kanagaratna , E.R.
Thiruselvam and SM
Gopalaratnam during the final
tribute to KAS 1989
‘At that time you helped him serving
food at his place, now we should take care of you without fail at any cost by
arranging food for you. He was determined in helping back were the words by
KAS’s wife. These were traits of gratefulness by KAS.
I wrote my critical views on the stand
point of Sri Lanka’s Communist party with regard to liberation of Tamil Eelam
in EEZHA MURASU, he also responded to that on
their party magazine.
When I met him in Tholpuram, the discussion got attention on
these essays too. In his reaction “ I have to reply in the same journalistic
Tamil ( same tone probably) which I had learnt from Gopu. But despite
difference of opinions, nothing come between our friendship and nothing which
hamper our friendship will not come in between us” KAS said determinedly.
KAS’s defined the friendship in this
way. KAS penetrated into villages for the liberation of oppressed and
suppressed people. In the struggle for workers and farmers wellbeing, he was
also attacked by police and got beaten up by them.
He was known as rebellion and
protested against all evils. However, I saw him as humanitarian, some body with
human qualities and his humanism only I could observe of him.
KAS –
we could remember him as Beijing KAS in our memory. He never
compromised his goals and achieved his objectives and goals. Long live his name
and fame.
Veteran Tamil Journalist SM Gopalaratnam Known as “Gopu” and “SMG”
Jaffna.
# - 1971
15.
Literary friend – KAS (By K.Ganesh)
Some
years before China National celebration was held in Chinese
Embassy in Colombo. Among the western dress clad crowd, I
noticed a tall majestic person wearing Veshty
(dhoti) and enquired with an acquaintance who he was. ‘Don’t
you know him. I am very surprised. I thought you must have been known him. He
is the secretary of Sri Lanka Communist Party (Left).
I
have heard him as man of his own mind rather than as one who blindly follows
orders from the top. When this friend introduced me to him, ‘oh. Is it the
same Ganesh who
translated the works of Hungarian poet Petofi?’ (Sándor Petőfi ). When knodded, he
immediately with a hug he said ‘I read that were published in Thinakaran and Thamarai. In those days when I read
some of the translations of Petofi, I had suggested a few Tamil poets in
Sri Lanka. For some reasons they did not show interest. I was pleased when I
read yours ‘.
As
I found his work comparable to that of Mahakavi Subramania Bharathi in arousing emotions in
people to raise against the colonial oppression, I had translated his works. I
was pleased when a seasoned senior politician like KAS appreciating my work
when I was doubting the reach of my works to the right audience. More this,
however I was happier for being introduced to a leader who had interest in
literature and brought fresh ideas unlike other politicians who are interested
merely in delivering long speeches.
He
mentioned happily the role played by ‘Desiya Kalai Ilakkiya Peravai’ (National arts
and literature association) in promoting literary works and the impressive
manner in which Bharathi centenary memorial celebration
publication ‘Bharathi panmuha paarvai’ received.
He also mentioned about the efforts being taken to improve the publication of
the monthly magazine ‘Thayagam’.
His
thinking was that struggles of upcountry people should merge with main stream
movements to establish an united Sri Lanka. He also suggested that ‘Kalai Illakkiya Peravai’ could play a role in
bringing the translation of Petofi’s works in Tamil. As per the
discussions the hand written translated copies of Petofi’s work
Although the manuscripts could not be published due to
then prevailing politicalsituation in Sri Lanka, subsequently he got it
published with the help of‘Chennai Books’ in an impressive manner. I
had an opportunity to interact with him closely, when he was admitted in an
hospital in Peradenya. He often highlighted the vital role played by the
literature in shaping the politics of any country.
He
mentioned with the concern China’s Foreign Language Press not publishing any
Tamil books since 1976. He had shown interest in making them resuming
publishing in Tamil. Just two days before his demise, he had visited an
Exhibition of Chinese Books in Colombo and seems like he had impressed upon the
visitors from China resuming the publication of Chinese books in Tamil.
He
was also supportive of the ‘Desiya Kalai
Illakkiya Peravai’ publishing
the works of Prof. S. Sivasegaram, R. Murugaiyan, N. Raveendran and K. Thanikasalam. The unfortunate demise
of a leader with passionate love for the literature, extraordinary organizing
capacity and political honesty, is great loss for not only Tamil Nadu but for
the entire nation.
16.
A tireless worker - ( By Dr. S.V Seenivasagam)
Photo 27:
Comrade Dr. S.V Seenivasagam is
talking in the condolence meeting for Comrade K.A. Subramaniam in
1989
I
know Comrade K.A. Subramaniam from the days he joined
as an young member of the Communist Party. I still recall the youthful active
enthusiastic role played by KAS even as my memories fading in old age.
He
was selfless and a revolutionary leader. He was in the forefront of all
the struggles that were part of the party, for the welfare of oppressed people,
workers and farmers and so on.
Due
to participation in the struggles, he was beaten up by police very badly and
severely injured with blood loss. Because he was always under the watch of the
Government, he happened to lead a absconded life among people. He worked
tirelessly and honestly and neglected food and sleep on time which led to his
ill health.
At
last he had to leave us at the age of 58 years, which was a great loss for all
of us. My sincere condolences to the party to which he was the General
Secretary and to his bereaved family!
17.
He dedicated his life to grass
root people (By Prof. A. Shanmughathas )
I
am not a member of the Communist Party. Yet, I have good involvement with
Comrade K.A. Subramaniam, the General Secretary of
the Communist Party of Sri Lanka (Left). Leading in many ways the struggles and protests against
the oppression of depressed caste people in Sri Lanka, he had showed us his
humanity and selfless service to others.
Photo 28: Comrade KAS’s wife Valliammai
and son Satheakeerthy are seen with Prof.
A. Shanmughathas and Prof
Manonmani Shanmughathas in front of Professor K. Kailasapathy Auditorium on 4 August 2022
We
could witness in our own eyes the impact of such protests and fights by such people
like K.A. Subramaniam. His vehement protests all
through the nights were sung by poet like Subhathiran in
his writings as ‘even if the enemy tries to attack in the deep night, the
burning eyes of Nitchamam -Chankanai. will dilute that
attack by finding the enemy through their vigilance’
I
met first time Thozhar (Comrade) K.A. Subramaniam in 1970s. He is very
noble person. He used to wear white shirt and white dhoti (vesti). He always used to have gentle
smile on his face and he was a man of few words.I could understand easily the
respect and affection others had on him. I also started developing affection
and respect to him. I enquired about him from others. After that many years, I
have not met him at all. Yet, he was also one of the persons who were etched in
my mind. When I came to know about the news of his demise, could feel the lump
in my throat and an inexplicable sadness in me.
I
recalled the past incidents once again. Why I remember this person? One
reason could be, he dedicated his entire life to grass roots people. At the
same time, he did not throw his weight around or boost about himself but
expressed himself as a simple man who had inclined towards humanity. That
simplicity could another reason that I liked him a lot.I feel proud to write a
memorial note about such a wonderful person. I render my sincere condolences to
the wonderful person who was amicable, service minded, willingness to struggle,
honesty and loyalty to the Party in which he was associated.
Prof. A.
Shanmughathas Jaffna
18.
Person who raised his voice
against genocide of Tamils (By Comrade A. Seevarathinam )
Photo 29:
Comrade A.Seevarathinam
( Deputy leader, A.V.C.S Colombo -2) was giving eulogy in the memorial meeting
in 1989 for Comrade K.A.
Subramaniam
The
passing of Comrade K.A. Subramaniam was a huge loss for the
working class and Left movement as well. His contribution to liberation of
oppressed, marginalised people was tremendous. Particularly, his leading role
in the movement against pervasive, frenzied caste atrocities in Northern Sri
Lanka is unforgettable.
The
only path towards the creation of an egalitarian (Socialist) society, where
there is no exploitation of one being at the hand of another, is revolution.
Comrade Subramaniam not only believed in the revolution but he took real steps
towards manifesting that goal. Though this path was laden with challenges and
sufferings, he never let that limit his work towards the revolution. Comrade
KAS raised voice against the genocide of Tamils. He was General Secretary of
the Communist Party of Sri Lanka (Left). With K.A. Subramaniam as its General Secretary,
the Communist Party of Sri Lanka (Left) took the stand that recognition of the autonomy was
critical for resolving the ethnic problem in Sri Lanka.
Comrade
Subramaniam and the party not only insisted on the unity among the different
factions in the left movement, they took steps to arrive at such a unity. The
northern region workers’ union and progressive associations jointly celebrating
international May Day was one of the founding moments of such a unity; in which
Comrade KAS played an immeasurable role. Strengthening this unity and taking
forward the socialist movement would be the real tribute to Comrade KAS.
The
share the grief experienced by his family and friends on losing him.
A Seevarathinam Deputy Leader,
AVCS, Colombo - 2.
19.
Comrade K.A. Subramaniam– a visionary! (By M. Markandu )
If
you are born, you should be striven to become famous. Otherwise, it is good
that we are not born.
K.A. Subramaniam lived
this adage, He was born in 1931 in Northern Jaffna at a place called Kollankaladdy
to a well-known family. He followed the ideal envisioned in the Thirukural ‘let a man
be educated thoroughly, and let his conduct be worthy of his education.’ That
was his life’s philosophy. He believed that there was only one community and
only one God. There is no
Photo 30: Mr. M.
Markandu is reading the Marriage Greetings (1986)
secretly sent by Sathiarajan from Army Fort Jail, during the wedding of N. Raveendran with
Sathiamalar on 19 November 1986.
By
loving and marrying a woman from a different caste amid many oppositions he
revolted on a personal level against the caste system. The union of Subramaniam
and Valliammai went
beyond their names. They lived like Valluvar and Vasuki and
actualized those qualities; their son Sathiarajan was martyred in the Eelam
liberation struggle.
On
the 11th day of the month of December in 1984, the Sri Lankan army suddenly
arrested Sathiarajan (Meeran Master). At this time, it was rumored that he
leaked his Party’s
internal information to the Sri Lankan army. Already hurting over his son’s
sudden arrest, this rumour further pierced KAS’s wounded heart. It is possible
that the compromise of his party’s security hurt more than the arrest of
his son.
To
enquire about this tragic event, I paid KAS a vist at Sathiamanai. At this
time, I refuted this view by pointing out that it was difficult to see
Sathiarajan not walking the same path as his revolutionary father. To console
him, I reminded him of the scars left by the battles he fought to defend his
socialist principles. Like him, I told him, Sathiarajan too would have
defended the Party; his son could not have betrayed the Party. My reminders rested
on his sobs. Though, my words came true– Sathiarajan was released without having
disclosed any Party information– these tragic events haunted Comrade KAS,
shadowing him even in his last days.
He
derived unlimited happiness from his daughter, Sathiamalar (Buby), who he
cherished as his wealth; and a son in law, N. Raveendran,
who shared his socialist principles and values. Thereafter, a grandchild
Subhrah.
KAS’s
second son Satheakeerthy was highly studious. He became an engineer. He took
care of his father when he was unwell in Kandy and Colombo. As an intelligent student,
Satheakeerthy got many special grants and
scholarships at the University level
bringing even more fame to his family and his country. With three gifted
children, KAS led a large life.
His
life’s fundamental principle was that he wanted every living being to be happy.
He won everybody’s heart and love and lived a great, honest life. I pray for
the well-being of my brother KAS’s family and friends.
Chulipuram East
Retired Prison Officer
Marriage Greetings (1986) written by Sathiarajan from Army Fort Jail, Jaffna for of N. Raveendran with
Sathiamalar
The Father who wants the proletarian to
rule –
The mother who follows father’s footsteps
The elder brother who wants to dismantle
oppression
The younger brother who is enraged by
injustice
To love, Mama and Mamy
To cherish, Uncle and Aunty
Comrades to impart knowledge,
And a supportive neighbourhood-
You were born as a treasure and an hounour
to them-
You grew up with affectionate love.
Kindness and mercy are your habits-
Reluctance and hesitance are never yours.
Your partner for life is someone who stands
for social change
His work must continue throughout life.
We know Marx
and Jenny (Amma and Appa)
Wishes to a winning life- just like
them!
-
Sathiarajan
20.
A Humanitarian named KAS
(By V. Divyarajan )
Photo 31: Professor Maunaguru, Comrade N. Raveendran and
Comrade Valliammai Subramaniam are
seen while Comrade V.
Divyarajan addressing the Zoom meeting of the Kindle Tamil version Book
released on 27th November, 2021 .
I recall in my mind’s screen,
The many days we spent together.
Upright gait,
A gaze held straight,
The greatness of a clear wisdom, and
A smiling profile that blossoms from the heart.
Even when mountains crumble,
Steadfastness of the mind
Beholds the truth every single day.
Arts, poetry and music-
We realized you had skills, in addition to an
interest-
After listening, one night, in a hostel room in
Colombo Ramakrishna Mission-
The melodies with the “aalaaps”(ஆலாபனை), as sweet as honey.
In your home, at times, when I visited
I saw goodness
That still inspires me.
A holy basil plant
reigned like a god
In the flower garden.
Is a plant being worshiped as god in a Communist’s
home?
Or is this the supreme wisdom that equates
Crows and sparrows and plants and creepers?
I pondered with surprise.
I came to see that
The status of the holy basil
Followed the status awarded
To the wife who was pious.
21.
Glowing galaxy! (By National Arts and Literary Association)
Photo 32: Professor Maunaguru was
giving eulogy in the memorial meeting for Comrade K.A. Subramaniam on 30
November 1989
It is natural for those who love the people
and engage in the politics of liberation of the people to be inspired by art
literature, as Bharti said, for writers and artists who
have the attitude of "seeing others'." Many of them have been art
literary creators, good tasters and good critics. In this way, the loss of
Comrade K.A. Subramaniam, who was a good taster and
critic, gives us the impression that his lost not only for politics but also
for the field of art and literature.
He was
instrumental in the formation of our National Arts and Literary Association and
the editorial editorial for the Tāyakam magazine.
He will inspire people to read and enjoy short stories, poems and novels that
will give hope and enthusiasm to those who are praying for liberation;
Identifies and encourages those with energy in those fields. Many new
generations have been introduced to writing by his encouragement. His
connections with many literary pioneers of Eelam such as Prof. K.
Kailasapathy, Prof. S. Sivasegaram, Prof. S. Thillainathan and R. Murugaiyan through
the field of art and literature are also noteworthy.
On
behalf of the National Arts and Literary Association, we
also pay tribute to Comrade K.A. Subramaniam, who wrote in his heart the
hymn of hope, which heralds the emancipation of mankind from the frequently
published poems of the Congolese poet Pettobi, entitled "The coming of the
shining stars and the passing away of the surrounding darkness".
National Arts and Literary Association
22.
Up-country Lover (By Sri Lanka
Democratic Youth Front, Hatton.)
Comrade KAS, who dedicated his
life for the liberation of mankind, must say that the love he had for the up-country people was unique.
Comrade KAS has paved the way
for the liberation of the up-country people, who
have been living under class exploitation and chauvinist oppression for more
than one hundred and fifty years, and for linking them to national struggles.
Photo 33:
Comrade S.Thevaraja
addressing the May Day Rally presided by Comrade K.A. Subramaniam on 1
May 1989.
He was the keynote speaker at the 1980 Youth Conference in Talawakelle. Comrade KAS was the one who visited all the parts of the
upcountry where the preparatory meetings of the conference were held and
interacted with the plantation workers and fertilized them. When the youth
movement pointed out the problems and presented the basic livelihood rights of
the people, KAS was the one who guided them to solve many problems by giving
proper advice.
Comrade KAS was the one who guided our leap forward by guiding us
to the right and resolute work ethic whenever the comrades of the Youth
Movement were arrested and subjected to repression many times. He even
mentioned his visit to the Highlands in his last letter to the Highland
comrades four days before his death.
Comrade KAS will live with us and our people forever. His proper
guidance will pave the way for the complete liberation of the up-country people. We will firmly follow
in his footsteps and walk the path.
Sri Lanka Democratic Youth Front, Hatton. (Up-country Committee)
23.
Determinant idealist (By
Krishnapillai Teacher)
Thirukkural 458 says that, “To perfect men, though minds right good
belong, Yet good companionship is confirmation strong”. Means that although they may have great (natural) goodness of
mind, yet good society will tend to strengthen it. Mental health here is an
overview of individual character. Racial welfare is a social perspective.
Mr. K.A Subramaniam who lived and died in a life where these two perspectives
coexisted.
Photo 34: Mrs
Pakkiyam Ponniah who safe guarded KAS when he was underground, Mr. S.T.
Nadesaratnam, Mr. Sithamparapillai, Mr. A. J. Kanagaratna (
with an umbrella ), Mr. Krishnapillai and Dr. S.V Seenivasagam are
seen during the 1989 Tribute Ceremony.
From the age of enlightenment
to the end, he immersed himself in the philosophy of Communism and was content to dedicate himself to great service. In October 1966, he became
one of the passionate pioneer leaders in the tea shop equality march from
Chunnakam to the Jaffna town, his first struggle for the abolition of
untouchability, and was bombed by the police. He was placed on Police custody.
Comrade K.A Subramaniam was one of the most courageous and pioneering leaders of
the Communist Party's Mass
Movement for the Eradication of Untouchability since July 1968. He played a major role in the success of
the struggles.
Comrade K.A Subramaniam who accepted the unselfish leadership of the oppressed
masses in many areas such as Changanai, Mavittapuram, Matuvil, Kodikamam, etc., and sought victory by subduing the
enemy, was badly beaten by the police when he led the 1969 May Day
procession in Jaffna in defiance of the
Government ban. It was this incident that made him sick. Yet his mental
strength and valiant courage, his idealistic communist ideology of
"everyone should live, the world should be as it is", carried out
what he intended until his death and made him live a successful life.
His demise was a disaster for
the oppressed, poor peasantry and working people. I pay my respects on behalf
of the Mass Movement for the Eradication
of Untouchability for his peace of mind.
Thondaimanaru, Krishnapillai Teacher
________________________________________
“Communists
must always be ready to argue for the truth. The reason is that the truth is in
the best interests of the people. Communists must always be ready to correct
their mistakes. Because mistakes are against the interests of the people.”
________________________________________
24.
The one who lived the life of
truth (By S. Alagaratnam )
He who guards Dharma becomes a defender of
himself. This is the scriptural vow; The grammar of truth. Literature for
this Arichandra
Purana: Arichandran is the creator of truth in
the world.
The answer is that the world has
given Arichandran the gift of eternity. The
location of truth in society is equality.
Photo 35: Mr S.
Alagaratnam , N. Raveendran and Subharah Raveendran are seen during the 1989
Tribute Ceremony.
Late K.A. Subramaniam had the courage to
protect equality. KAS’s dedication to protect the Communism. His life is Communism; He lived Communism as if it were his
life: he emptied himself. Also, the birth burden slipped by itself; The journey
also became easier for him.
I have known him for the last 25 years.
However, for the past 5 years I have had the opportunity to get closer to him
only during his final period. That is my privilege- in a way it is even my
baptism.
Because, of all the books I have read KAS
biography is like Thirukural! Every man every book. Some are
tasty, some are bitter! Deep, experiential formulas are very, very few. This
type of "KAS" is their type of record!
The deep-seated experienced intimate tunnel
will appear and appear! It is a treasure trove of pleasure. The self that sold
itself. "Were it said that loss of wealth is
the price of benevolence, Such loss is worth selling one's self to procure." Thirukural (220).
KAS is a “Childish” person. Fearless
teenager, - “A sorcerer to a naked Maharaja (King) dressed in invisible
hypocrisy and marched for public viewing. That was the day of the internal
nudity test for all people. People were all amazed at King's invisible, non -
existent attire. Why, the same story for the King!
Suddenly a child shouted, "King nude!
King nude!!" People were confused; The parents scolded the child.
"Then only the Maharaja realized the truth" The same story that
happened to this child happened to the "child" KAS in life.
Photo 36: Comrade K.A. Subramaniam wife Valliammai on 30 November 1989
One voice shouted that many obstacles, such
as superstition, bigotry, antiquated traditional rituals, and social ills, had
obscured the inner workings of society. That is the voice of Social Equality - Communism!. At the forefront
of giving voice to this call is the late K.A. Subramaniam,
the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Sri Lanka (Left) !
The manner in which his wife, son-in-law
and children who stood firm in these resolve throughout his lifetime is greatly
appreciated. His death is an irreparable loss not only to his family but to all
of us. May we continue his work for the peace of his soul!
S. Alagaratnam, Kaalaiyady,
Pandatharippu.
25.
A river of
life that has dried up!
(Poem by S. Patkunam)
Why did he lean his head carrying the burdens of
the undead people?
Why did the whip-raised hands rest to break the
beast of the people's hands?
Why is the exploitative ideology of working life
frozen?
Why did the legs that ran all their lives stand
up to protect the oppressed people?
Did I, who spoke sleeplessly for world workers'
unity, dry up?
Why did the eyes of the poor Palmer fall asleep
longing to see liberation?
Why did the ears of those who carried the
mournful voices of the enslaved people close their ears?
Wire cages, gunfire, poverty alerts,
Perverted pride, thrones all
Did the transgressor KAS not return?
S. Patkunam ( Chief
Secretary, North Eastern Province, Sri Lanka)
This Poem as a Video Song ,
sung by Comrade Ragala Paneer in 2014
26.
Your Unforgettable Memory (By
BS Perumal - Senior Journalist)
Laughter is the unchanging face: the one who has the attitude of
facing failure and success with that smile. Heart that does not yearn for fame:
One who understands many achievements, sees many successes, and does not want
to be proud of his personal influence or fame even after growing up as a
leader.
Opportunistic
incomprehensible; A man who, despite his good reputation and the immense
influence of the people, never a pyporat or an opportunist, and did not seek
rank positions.
One who stands up for justice,
honesty, and principle. Who was subjected to repression and beatings by the
forces because of it. Nevertheless, he continued to fight for the policy he had
taken without giving up. Who loved oppressed, oppressed people; Beloved by
them.
He is late K.A. Subramaniam! He had many
close friends in many fields beyond the organization on which he depended. As
such, it has won the hearts and minds of many journalists like me.
No matter how big the
'serious' thing, I have never seen anyone else have the mentality to face it
with a joke. Anything had a plan, specification he had. One of his
characteristics is to inquire about the sorrows of friends and to share as much
as possible with them.
He must have established many
more achievements in the political sky. He had the qualifications, skills and
determination to do so. Time, the situation in the country, and the disease
that came in between have become obstacles. The man who fought for equality for
all has gone to the world of equanimity which is unavoidable by any human
being.
Long live the name he who
grammatically embodied the highest friendship!
Lord of
smiles!
Guardian of
fame!
For the oppressed
people
The one who
worked tirelessly!
Good for
friendship!
The principle
that won us over!
On the path of
equality
The one who never
slipped!
Why so
hurry to leave us ?
Do not forget
your memory
As long as the
mind is with us!
BS Perumal,
Senior Journalist,
Arali North.
27.
Nationalist (By R.
Sivakurunathan, Colombo Dinakaran Chief Editor)
Mr. K.A. Subramaniam demise is
a disaster for the trade union movement. Despite the complex political
situation in the North, Mr. K.A. Subramaniam was
concerned with the welfare of the workers and their rights.
Despite the height of ethnic
strife in the north over the past few years, Mr. K.A. Subramaniam The
concern he had for Tamil workers was not diverted. With the racial struggle,
although Mr. K.A. Subramaniam was not
closely associated with them, he continued his work with a vision of Tamil
welfare and development. Mr. K.A. Subramaniam has never
been accused of acting contrary to their aspirations or being arrogant by any
Tamil movement. Everyone respected him because his mission was the welfare of
the workers.
Mr. K.A. Subramaniam was
concerned with the progress and development of the Tamil minority. During the
temple entry protest held at Mavittapuram Kandasamy temple, Mr. K.A. Subramaniam fought in
support of the mass movement. Upon hearing the news of his demise, I informed
my teacher, Mavittapuram lawyer MS Kanagarettinam. Mr. Kanagarettinam was a teacher
at Zahirak College and later became an Advocate. Who was at the forefront of
the Communist movement at the time. Mr. K.A. Subramaniam reminded
them and Mr. Kanagarettinam expressed his concern by recalling his acquaintance
with KAS .
With a national purpose and a
broad mindset, Mr. K.A. Subramaniam is well
aware of the plight of Tamil Nation. Thus, everyone fell in love with him;
Believed. His sudden demise is a tragedy for all those who care about the
well-being of Tamils.
R. Sivakurunathan,
Dinakaran Editor-in-Chief,
Colombo.
________________________________________
“There
are two kinds of sociology in the world today, one that is fundamentally based
on socialist principles and the other that develops in an anti-social norm.
There is no doubt that these two sociologies are the expression and
representation of two perspectives on the world in a more nuanced way. ”
Professor K.
Kailasapathy - Sociology and Literature
_______________________________________
28.
Demise of a great guide- (By A.
Ponniah, Trincomalee)
Photo 37: Mr.
A. Ponniah’s family during the wedding of N.Raveendran with Sathiamalar on 19
November 1986.
He loved this country and its
people from his youth until he left us and sacrificed his life for their
well-being and freedom. K.A. Subramaniam's demise
is a disaster for the people of this country.
He fought for political,
economic and social emancipation and worked hard for the emancipation of the
oppressed masses. Adopting the principle that all people are equal, he has won
many struggles for equality in society.
He has focused heavily on the
educational development of the poor and literary publications focusing on them,
and has been responsible for publishing numerous publications, inspiring many
old and new poets and writers.
Influenced by his service from
lay people to university professors, he has been a preceptor to many like me, a
consultant in the field of literature and a guide to higher education.
His loss was catastrophic. We
extend our tearful condolences to him.
A. Ponniah,
29.
Life is a practical thought! –
(By K. Jayapalasingam)
Comrade KAS, there are many
things that remind us of him. Comrade KAS was well aware of what they meant by
struggles among the masses, how to unite the masses through struggles, and how
to protect the united masses so that they would not be spared, so that the mass
struggles could be won not only in speech but also in action and by living and
demonstrating success in struggles. That is the most valuable quality we must
learn from him.
Photo 38:
Comrade K. Jayapalasingam with S.K. Senthivel and Shanmugam
Subramaniam of
Communist Party of Sri_Lanka (Marxist Leninist)) during the memorial meeting
for Comrade K.A. Subramaniam on 30
November 1989 .
For more than 35 years,
Comrade K.A. Subramaniam has
contributed in a most dignified manner to the development of the Communist
Party of Sri Lanka, which he has relied on without deviating from the norms of
proletarian thought, despite the occasional divisions and setbacks.
On the contrary, he had the
virtue of accepting and self-criticizing when criticism arose, regardless of
whether he was educated-uneducated, minor-adult, do-or-don't. This is how we
could see Comrade KAS's leadership of the Party even when he laid dead, we noticed
how the people love him with dignity.
We must also remember his wife
and children who helped make his political career so clean and efficient. This
is also the contribution of Comrade KAS. I think Comrade KAS’s life is a
practical thought for us!
K. Jayapalasingam,
Irupalai.
30.
Despite Demise Surviving Man
(By E. Thambiah)
Photo 39:
Comrade E. Thambiah during
the memorial meeting for Comrade K.A. Subramaniam on 30
November 1989
"There will be time
enough to sleep when I'm dead” (R. W.
FASSBINDER German Film Director)
The Communist
Party of Sri Lanka (Left) is paving the way for
the revolutionary mass struggle for the liberation of the upcountry
proletariat, which is being suppressed in every way.
It would not be an
exaggeration to say that the late Comrade K.A. Subramaniam, who served as
its General Secretary for the last decade, has set a record in implementing the
principled Marxism for the liberation of the whole country and its people.
He was against exploitation
and oppression that had been established racially and regionally in the up-country, whether it
was racial or regional; Racial and regionalist struggle cannot break the slave
animals of the up-country people. He firmly believed
that such a struggle would not bring complete liberation to the up-country people and did not fail to
insist on it.
He did not have any
differences of opinion as to whether leadership for the people should be
nurtured among them in the exclusive reality situation of the up-country people, and stressed that such
leadership should be developed towards national leadership.
He often highlighted the need
for a united struggle of parties, trade unions and organizations among the organizations
for the liberation of the upcountry people. Guided the practical work of
the Communist
Party of Sri Lanka (Left) in the up-country and made
possible unity with other upcountry organizations; Paid close attention. As the
General Secretary of the Party, he maintained honest relations with the up-country institutions
and up-country leaders in the
interest of the people.
He showed a keen interest in
building the Communist
Party of Sri Lanka (Left) with the right basic
principles among the up-country people. It is noteworthy that
he, who was the soul of the Party's origins, finally left in the up-country with the thought for the up-country people.
Throughout his life he worked
tirelessly for the emancipation of all mankind, rightly advocating Marxist
policy internationally and nationally. That humanity deserves to be called a
genius. "Genius" is said to mean perseverance.
Even during his illness, he
continued to work hard to establish the truth. He was firmly involved in
learning, writing and Party activities, caring for the welfare of the people
even when he had to retire.
Photo 40: Copy of the 'Red Banner’ published by KAS in 1980s
Whatever he thought would be
enough time to sleep after death, he did not care much about rest for the rest
of his life. Even while in bed he worked for the liberation of mankind at
breakneck speed until the very end.
It may be pertinent to share
the meaning of the following quote with the thousands of monitors who have
rallied to follow the path he has shown until he reaches the ultimate goal of
the humanity. ‘I'll have enough time to
sleep when I'm dead'
31.
Happy Memories - (By K.Natanasabapathy )
Photo 41: 13th
Commemorative Anniversary was, held in the Ramakrishna Mission Hall, Colombo on
22 December 2002. The K. A. Subramaniam Memorial Lecture entitled ‘Future
Prospects for the Current Peace Process’ was delivered by Tone Marie Buberg of
the APK Workers Communist Party of Norway. Professor S Sivasegaram Chaired the meeting
with Comrade K.Natanasabapathy.
Although the days when Comrade K.A. Subramaniam got acquainted with me
were few, the impact he had on those few days was lasting. He is the one who
has the power to unravel many historical events that are not in the record.
Aladdin's style of carrying out the revolutionary spheres and effects that took
place in various parts of the world after the October Revolution is remarkable.
Knowing the history of the revolution
carried out by the people, he guided the people to carry out the revolution
which had eliminated the flaws and mistakes. The way he showed us to eradicate
the caste inequality that is deeply ingrained in the Sri Lankan Tamil caste is
the way we should follow. He is not a word player, he is an activist.
He is kind and gracious to the enemy.
Nevertheless, he did not fall short of the ideal for his friends. Although he
had little faith in the current electoral system, he did not fail to guide the
well-to-do people on how to fulfill their electoral duty. The way he
showed the people during the last presidential election, the promises he made
to the contestant, the manner in which he boldly welcomed the contestant - were
to be commended. Let the instructions that are said to be communicated to the
converter also be a lesson to future guides.
His writing 'Cembatagai' and 'Puthiya Bhoomi' were the reason for walking with
confidence. The tribute we make to him is to follow the way he has shown- to
create new leadership.
K. Natanasabapathy, Point Pedro.
32.
He had a unique talent- (By Sri
Manoharan Gnanasundaram)
When remembers Comrade KAS, I am reminded of his style of
mobilizing allied forces that can be mobilized against the common enemy.
Photo 42: Comrade
Sri Manoharan Gnanasundaram donating some books to K.A. Subramaniam's SATHIAMANAI Library Administrator N.
Raveendran.
The Tamil political parties,
which were incapable of directly confronting the Left politically, presented
their reactionary views at some international event in each period. Following
the Sino-Indian border dispute, the Tamil politicians of the day resolved to make China an
occupying country. The Sri
Lanka-China Friendship Association's Jaffna
branch rebutted with evidence that India is an occupying country. It is no
exaggeration to say that the branch suppressed the opponents of China’s stand
on the Sino-Indian border dispute by putting forward arguments. Jaffna branch of the Sri Lanka-China Friendship Association as a broad organization that brings together friends with
different political views. It is my opinion that the pride that created the
Jaffna branch will go Comrade KAS.
Photo 43: With
Comrade Nihal Dias (Standing) , the Sri Lanka-China Friendship Association, Former President
Mr. Ratne Deshapriya Senanayake, Current President: Mr. Ananda Goonatilleke.
Jaffna branch of the Sri Lanka-China Friendship Association, may even have been a guide on some occasions to the main central
Association. Comrade KAS is unique in his ability to do his work in such a way
as to showcase his talent from friends in different fields who have similar
views on public matters.
Commemoration of Comrade KAS
in following the precedent set by them in mobilizing forces that can mobilize
against the common enemy in the political, economic, social, cultural and
cultural spheres can only mean to commemorate him.
Sri Manoharan Gnanasundaram, Kurumpasiddy.
33.
Practical Lifestyle - (By Mrs.
S. Kailasapathy )
Photo 44: Ms.
Pavithra daughter of Prof Kailasapathy addressing during the 1989 Tribute in Sathiamanai.
Around 1975, my husband Kailasapathy introduced us to his close friend
Mr. K.A. Subramaniam. For the first time we
were all impressed by his simple appearance and off-putting nature. He had then
come barefoot. "Uncle has come to this awning barefoot," said our
children. He would then put on sandals because of their love nagging. This is a
small example of his simplicity.
Kailasapathy and Mr. K.A. Subramaniam were the contemporary
political comrades with two years apart. The two have been in agreement on
national and international political affairs until the end. In that sense, it
was possible to see mutual understanding and mutual respect. He was not only a
communist in speech but also proved it in his life and actions. He did not
leave us great political philosophical works. But he has left a practical way
of life and rich struggle experiences. There is no doubt that his life will be
a great guide for every communist.
Mrs.
Sarvamangalam Kailasapathy,
Tirunelveli.
34.
Satyavan who lived in Sathiamanai (By M.Shanmugalingam)
Due to Mr. K.A. Subramaniam’s death this soil has lost a
good man. We have seen that politics often breeds perversions in the minds of
many people. But even with the politics dubbed "dirty game" by the
British, Mr. K.A. Subramaniam could not "free" the dirt from them. He was
ultimately an impeccable man.
Photo 45: Comrade KAS family with Tholpuram Weaving Center staff in 1972
He was one of the few who
lived as he spoke, in a world where it was rare to ever write or speak together
to correct oneself. Seen from a distance, many of the glittering glitter will
shrink in self-expression as they approach and practice. But, this man stood
tall and wide as we got closer and closer. This does not make it possible for
everyone. It is only possible for one who is self-respected, free-spirited,
honest and loving. He was the only one who knew how to accept, swallow, and
digest great suffering as if nothing had happened to him. Suffering could not
grieve him. The repression could not disgrace him. Illness could not weaken
him: because of his high spirits, Could not even touch the cultured heart. He
was an upright man, full of wisdom and compassion. So, beyond politics, he
embraced everyone and continued to be a human being.
He deserves to live another
fifty-eight years. Yet within fifty-eight years he had "settled
himself" within a thousand souls. Those souls will inhabit him into tens
of thousands more souls. This thought alone gives us comfort.
Tirunelveli.
35.
A connecting bridge – (By
Mariyadas)
Everyone will agree that the
demise of Comrade K.A. Subramaniam was a
great loss to the activities of the progressive forces operating in the North
and South.
No one can forget the efforts
made by the Tamil and Sinhala progressive people living in the South for the
past thirty-five years to unite the mass struggle for their lost democratic
rights, especially the struggle for the right to self-determination of the
Tamil people in the North and East, the struggle for economic well-being and
the well-being of the minority community.
Photo 46: Comrade S.Thevaraja addressing the United
May Day Rally meeting presided by Comrade K.A. Subramaniam on 1 May 1980s.Also Comrade K. Navaratnam is sitting on the stage.
If Comrade K.A. Subramaniam volunteered
to mobilize the progressive minded youth at the grassroots level of society and
to speak out for their rights among the downtrodden, what an expression of his
immense mentality and determination!
Today, at a time when the
Tamil people, especially the people of the North and East, have been
transformed into a society where gun culture has turned into a tumultuous
society that celebrates their claim to their traditional ancient civilization,
it is painful to recall that politicians like Comrade K.A. Subramaniam, who had the
courage and clear political thinking to pursue national unity, have left us. I
could not decide who to share my sadness with.
Mariyadas,
Colombo.
36.
When will his dream come true?
(By A. J. Kanagaratna )
Photo 47: A.J.Kanagaratna and SM
Gopalaratnam during the final
tribute to KAS in 1989.
In today's dire situation, the demise of Comrade K.A. Subramaniam has added
to the crisis for the Northern Left Movement.
Comrade K.A. Subramaniam throughout
his life fought for the working people and the oppressed. I do not have to say
much about his life of struggle. Because it is the only one that is well known
by many!
Personally, I have lost a true
friend because of his demise. As I write this his smiling face appears in front
of my inner eye.
With that in mind we will both
talk about many things, including politics. Although he did not give up his
opinion, he had the mentality of listening to the opinions of others.
He passed away before the
society of his dreams came true.
But the day is approaching
when that ideal society will be formed by the efforts of people like him.
Is that day mine?
A. J.
Kanagaratna, Jaffna.
37.
Comrade Subramaniam lived as a
communist (By K. Panchalingam, Navalanga Workers Union.)
As Chairman Mao
Zedong said, the losses of some are like feathers. The
losses of some are like a mountain. Comrade K.A. Subramaniam’s loss is not like a feather;
Truly it is like a mountain. His loss is an irreparable catastrophe for the
working class, especially the downtrodden, who live in our country.
Photo 48: Comrade K. Panchalingam speaking at the
inauguration ceremony of K.A.
Subramaniam’s SATHIAMANAI Library on 27 November 2021
After incorporating himself into the
Marxist movement, he became a Marxist-Leninist and a revolutionary who
practically lived as Mao's thinker. One who implements the policy
without the principle being one thing and the practice another; He is also a
policymaker who devises policy from practice.
He was a man who loved people; Who lived
with people as people; He was a leading fighter who laid down policies from the
aspirations of the people and united the people for those policies.
He did not lead the people for the movement,
he led the movement for the people. “Workers of the world! Join us! ” He was an
idealist who fought for the rights of the working class under the banner of.
Comrade K.A. Subramaniam was a patriot who not
only spoke out against the warnings of imperialism, the threats of fascism and
the threats of expansionism, but also on the need to safeguard national unity.
He incorporated himself into the trade union
movement and was a trade unionist who fought with the workers for the demands
put forward by the workers and won their rights.
Above all, he was a communist with the aim
of overthrowing the class-based exploitative social system and continued to fight
for the liberation of the working class.
We worry when we think this kind of man is
no longer with us. Therefore, the tribute we pay to Comrade K.A. Subramaniam is to follow the path
shown by him.
K.
Panchalingam,
Secretary,
Navalanga
Workers Union.
Photo 49: Comrade KAS listening to Professor K. Kailasapathy during the eulogy to Mao Zedong
38.
KAS name will remain- (By Tellippalai K. Krishnamurthy)
In the past, he served as the
General Secretary of the Sri Lanka Communist Party (Left). We would also like to recall that in Tellippalai, 27 years ago,
our Tellippalai Progressive United Youth League (TPLWC) gave us systematic and
just advice on how to carry on the struggle in a manner befitting the struggle
for caste eradication and helped us to carry out the struggle successfully. His
demise is a great disaster for our society. It is very rare to see a man like
him who can serve the people without considering selfishness.
Thanks
K. Krishnamurthy,
Tellippalai. 1989
Photo 50: From 3 February 1962
'Desabimani' , the newspaper of the Communist Party of Sri Lanka. “Comrade KA
Subramaniam, a member of the Jaffna Divisional Committee of the Communist Party
of Sri Lanka, Secretary of the Jaffna Divisional Communist Youth Union, a major
contributor to the development of 'Desabimani', married last week to Comrade
Valliammai Asaipillai, a member of the Sri Lanka Progressive Writers'
Association. Our congratulations to the novelty couple.” – Administrator of
'Desabimani'.
39.
Best friend of working people
(By Comrade S. Kanapathipillai - Soodamani)
Photo 51: Comrade
S. Kanapathipillai - Soodamani addressing during the 1989 Tribute in Sathiamanai.
I
first met Mr. K.A. Subramaniam in 1950 as a trainee at the Kankesanthurai Cement Factory. At the time he had different
characteristics than other trainees in my view. K.A.Subramaniam was very interactive with the workers. Through this he
was able to establish contacts quickly among all the workers and gained a good
reputation and was also a spreader of new ideas outside the factory.
After
that K.A. Subramaniam started his political career as Comrade Subramaniam.
It is undeniable that he has played a leading role in the rights struggles of
the working class from then until today and in the mass struggles of the
disenfranchised and marginalized, not verbally but in action. So he faced many
hardships and difficulties in his own life. He carried out his policies for the
people till his last breath without deviating in the slightest from his
decisive and clear political policies. He encouraged other comrades to get
involved in such activities. His special character is that he does not approach
everyone he meets with pride that he is a communist. He will not even select
those he meets as communists. Meanwhile, He had the ability to persuade close
acquaintances to accept his principles in the course of the day. His selfless
work will continue to work for working people.
Former Chairman S. Kanapathipillai, Ceylon
Cement Corporation, Kankesanthurai Public Trade Union.
40.
Memories of those days (By
Kanpollai people, Nelliyadi, Karaveddy)
We were stunned for a moment
by the news that Comrade K.A. Subramaniam, the General
Secretary of the Communist Party of Sri Lanka (Left), had passed away. Memories
of his day came to mind. His explanations and advice on the duties and
responsibilities of the battlefield of that day, which gave us great attention,
kept us on the path to relaxation and success. He is not much of a talker.
However, Comrade K.A. Subramaniam, who had been
acting as the Chief Comrade, humbly advised us to summarize and memorize. Our
people will never forget the sober mass protests in Nelliyadi Kanpollai Tea
Shop Struggle and Temple Entry Struggle. We now extend our deepest tribute to
him.
Kanpollai people, Nelliyadi, Karaveddy.
________________________________________
"Language
is one of the forces that has enabled humans to emerge from the animal kingdom,
to unite as communities, to develop their thinking, to organize social
production, to wage a successful struggle against the forces of nature, and to
make the progress we have now." - Joseph Stalin :
Marxism and Linguistics.
______________________________________
41.
Final days with an esteemed
father. (By K. Akilan)
Photo 52: Comrade KAS with Kandy Hostel
Mate Engineer K. Suresh (UK), his granddaughter Subharah Raveendran and K.
Akilan in 1989.
The sun was spreading its rays on the beautiful
hilly soil and was firmly aware of the dawn. Dad, who usually wakes up early in
the morning to read and write, did not wake up on that day (26-11-1989). I
approached him and said, “What are you tired of? Are you sick? ” When asked, “I
have nothing. I'm fine.” He got up and flipped through a nearby book.
He does not always take grief into account. He
will only allow us to go to the hospital at our insistence. Even so, owning one
is still beyond the reach of the average person. There have been instances
where he has lost consciousness before the said dates. So this time we took him
to the hospital with the help of the next room mates against his will. Still,
he was as excited as ever during the trip and maintained that his chest would
not give way to any fatigue.
Photo 53: Comrade KAS stayed in this
hostel with K. Akilan in Kandy during his final days.
After coming to the hospital, he gradually
became more and more tired. Satheakeerthy also came there at this time. I left
Daddy for the night reluctantly because there was an exam the next day.
Although I returned home unscathed with the hope that my father would succeed
this time around, despite his worse health over the past few months.
When I came to the hospital eagerly after the
examination, father's health deteriorated further, and he was completely
unconscious with no movement. He suddenly raised his left hand and said goodbye
at about 5 o'clock, as the mucus was filling his throat obstructing his
breathing. The eye woke up, that's all!
"Aw!" We should not cry about that.
Because we have to learn many lessons from Dad's every move. I could not digest
the fact that today there is no more the great man who has not succumbed to any
threat or deadly disease.
He has been able to walk deftly since late 1987
despite having no emotion under his knees. He travelled. Furthermore, he has
even bicycled successfully.
He did not tell anyone that his legs were numb.
His mental strength, however, was such that he could not move his feet or toes
in an incredible way and walked slowly.
Despite the stern warning of
the medical expert, he was reading the newspapers till the end and was
reading EMS Namboodiripad's book 'Reminiscences of an Indian Communist'.
Who would not be amazed to see that Dad was
standing and talking excitedly for over an hour and a half with his old
Comrades and friends at the Chinese Book Fair at the Colombo Library on
November 1, 1989!
The last letter Dad wrote (20-11-1989) was
belongs to Mr. R. Siva Rajendran. In it he wrote very firmly that he would
attend the meeting to be held in Colombo on December 10.
Such a lifestyle of his, who
loved this land, people and life, is a beacon for all of us, and he is often
quoted as saying by the Hungarian poet Pettofi,
“The glowing galaxy is sure to come
The surrounding darkness is guaranteed to pass ”
Hopefully ..
K. Akilan,
Student,
K / Hindu Senior School, Kandy.
Photo 54: Comrade KA Subramaniam, married to Comrade Valliammai Asaipillai,
on 19 January 1962
42.
The language of KAS is also
called as "Poiya Moli” (Un-false language). (By
S. Nakuleswaran)
Photo 55: Klanai
Valarmati Community Center, Kollankalady, Tellipallai Library in the
1950s. V. Dharmalingam was invited to the Bharathi Festival.
KAS's childhood is very short in his native
soil. However, the traces he left are very deep.
Mr. K.A. Subramaniam was inspired by
Marxist-Leninist ideas around 1949. Moreover, he began to plow in search of
truth daily. He realized that no change was going to happen just by wiping out
the dust that lay above without finding the root of social ills.
Late KAS was interested in the
intellectual development of the village youth by imparting the ideas he had
received from comrades Pon . Kandaih, Karthikeyan
Master and Vaithilingam Master and the thoughts he had read in the
progressive philosophical texts.
He learned about national and international
politics, the losses suffered by society at the end of the war, and its social
responsibilities. Recognizing the need for an institution for community
cohesion at the village level to develop the knowledge of the villagers and to
explore and advance creative issues, KAS conveyed it to the villagers and set up
library with a reading room. He worked tirelessly with the villagers to gain
prominence for the library as a Village Development Association.
KAS, who was well aware of the real social
obligations, was a great guide in taking people along that path. He is not
associated with the determination to accept his views. One who does not
contradict differences of opinion. Who does not contradict anyone and is very
friendly with everyone. The way he dealt with contradictions with understanding
was exemplary for all. His life has become a grammar for others to understand
social interaction properly. They are accustomed to thinking and acting very
calmly, they are able to anticipate the consequences and express people in a
timely manner. He was affectionately known as the "un-false."
KAS is a humanist. His loss is a disaster
for mankind.
S. Nakuleswaran (Chairman),
Klanai, Valarmati Community Center, Kollankaladdi.
43.
We will never forget you! (By
Puthur Kalaimathi Community Center)
Photo 56: With
Comrades Selvam and Comrade K. Thanikasalam (editor of Thayagam magazine) at Kalaimathi Community Center
We are deeply saddened by the
news of the death of Comrade K.A. Subramaniam (General
Secretary) who was loved and valued and who aspired for a higher ideal - for
public life.
We will never forget his time
when he embarked on the ideal journey of public life, which did not prioritize
his own life for long, and for the liberation and rehabilitation of the
oppressed people.
Our village is one of the most
backward villages in the north. We came into contact with the Communist Party of Sri Lanka (Left) in the year 1979, when our village of daily laborers were
suppressed in various ways. Ten years have passed since the contact between our
village and the party on the same day that Comrade General Secretary left us.
But no one can deny that its lifeblood is the leadership and guidance of the
Left Communist Party if a village of working people, neglected and oppressed
for fifty years, stands on its own two feet, builds its strengths and moves
forward leisurely and maintains a number of achievements.
Comrade KAS, who later served
as the General Secretary of such a vital party, will never end the sober ideal
journey he has taught to guide the people and youth of our village. Generations
of our villagers will remember the contribution made by Comrade KAS, the party
and other leaders to the rise and fall of the old Vempirai into the new Vempirai.
What comrade has achieved so
far is very, very small. There is a lot to be achieved. They can only be
achieved through a long struggle. For that we need to mobilize more and more
people on the right path. One village alone is not enough. That means creating
as many as ten, several hundred villages.
It is great that we have lost
one of our leading comrades who always thought and worked for the
rehabilitation of the working class! We now swear that we will continue the
journey of his lofty ideals with great speed, multiplying the grief that comes
with it.
Kalaimathi Veedi, on behalf of
the villagers of Vempirai,
Kalaimathi Community Center, Puttur.
________________________________________
“I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in
which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities. It is
an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve. But if needs be, it is an
ideal for which I am prepared to die.”
________________________________________
44.
The Grammar of Mankind (By Kaalaiyady, Pandatharippu, Panipulam, Santai Youths)
If human life in this world is considered
literary, Comrade KAS’s life becomes its grammar.
He incorporated the omnipresent truth of
Marxism-Leninism into his life as a test of truth.
He devised a political system that lived
beyond the feudal, bourgeois and neo-colonial domination of Third World
countries.
Who considered it the duty of a communist
to stand up and fight against any form of oppression.
Julius Fusic, who fought against fascist
fanaticism, was confronted with the ideal quest of "I live for pleasure, I
fight for pleasure, I face death for pleasure."
The heart of a communist is the one who
wants to be understood as deep and wide as the ocean.
Photo 57: Comrade KAS family during the wedding of Writer S. Yoganathan
Favorite of the institutional political
system. He was driven by self-criticism and critique and was adamant that
democratic centralism should be maintained within the institution, not subject
to anarchy, fascism, opportunism, monotheism and lockout. Who acted as if the
Communists lived outside the party system and even as individuals in other institutions.
He applied the scientific practice of unity
and struggle in the general struggle of human society because parties,
organizations and movements are meant to represent different classes in class
society.
Who lived against the remnant caste system
of feudalism. Who launched an immediate struggle against caste oppression
caused by caste hatred. Although the “caste distinction” had to be eliminated
in the course of time, he was the forerunner of the new culture of the Tamil
people, with the exception of rituals that reflected caste as a precursor to
the activities of his own family and party.
He said that the struggle of the Tamil
people against ethnic oppression was justified and that he wanted the
liberation of the Tamil people from a class perspective rather than a narrow
national perspective against big nation racism.
He was the one who gave the voice with the
firm conviction that hegemonic actions should be fought against by anyone,
under any circumstances, in any form.
He wanted an international peace
environment. He loved the freedom of nations, the liberation of races and the
revolution of the people.
Among the people- one who believed in the
mass struggle. One who does not entangle himself in submissive actions by uttering
slogans or unrealistic demands that are beyond the realm of context. It
highlights his inaction in the matter.
When the Tamil people found political
leadership in the context of platform, election, monetary power, hereditary
domination, he rose to become a political leader by truth, honesty and
sacrifice.
He worked tirelessly to create communists
around himself, "beyond the empty boast that he was the only communist who
ever lived as a communist."
Folding is hard for people. Even harder is
to live for the people. Comrade KAS was a man who lived for the people.
Kaalaiyady, Pandatharippu, Panipulam, Santai Youths.
________________________________________
“Repression and racial
oppression are enough to justify the people's liberation struggle, including
oppression and racial oppression. Moreover, it is an attempt to distort history
by the compulsion to justify it and to give a historical animosity to the
differences between peoples of different races, in fact trying to deal with the
problem in the face of emphasizing a solution to the problem”.
- From the Book of ‘Sri Lankan ethnic oppression and
liberation struggle’
________________________________________
45.
Simple Leader (By Mrs. Chandra
Navaratnam)
Comrade even though he is no
more from us, his memory did not leave our minds. Mixed with our minds. He
lived as a strongman for the country, a good man at home and a supporter of the
needs of the people among the people. The one who has done in practice that
public service is the greatest service. He started the Movement for the Eradication
of Untouchability, a mass movement for the oppressed masses, and through it he
won many struggles against caste fanatics in many places and in many places.
Who partially extinguished the fire of caste.
Photo 58: Comrade
KAS with Comrade Chinnathurai Navaratnam
For that he lost his health by
sacrificing his bones and flesh to the evil dogs of the reactionaries. With
this year we have the misfortune of losing the revolutionary who will have to
live and serve for many more years. He was born into the ‘upper caste’ but
without that intention he was one of us who lived a life of love, kindness and
companionship. Various party figures lived in our midst. None of them can ever
take the place of my Comrade KAS. Because, his course and speech will go with
the stage. Not in practice. But, our comrade is the one who has accomplished
many purposes in practice. For example, our comrade is responsible for the first lines of the song, "My
salutation to Chankanai , your name will not fade in history for a
long time in the soil of Jaffna." Esteemed
Comrade has worked tirelessly since the time he embarked on his revolutionary
path. We will never forget him for the rest of our lives. I first met him at a
public meeting of the party.
Whenever my husband (Mr. Chinnathurai Navaratnam) said that K.A. Subramaniam was a
comrade, I weighed heavily on him. Because party leaders and personalities are
seen as smart and headstrong. But, contrary to what I thought, he looked very
humble and clean. My husband told me a love story when he introduced me to him.
In his story one can see the compassion of a father and the clarity of a
leader. Which has instilled in him a unique value and respect ever since.
We regret the loss of such a
responsible leader and our country. May the memory of our comrade, steeped in
the thought of Marxism-Leninism
- Mao Zedong, remain in our hearts forever
as a revolutionary beacon. Let his life history, such as the history of the
struggle, spread and shine. Our revolutionary salute to comrade.
Mrs. Chandra Navaratnam
Kantharmadam, Jaffna.
46.
Comrade KAS the Legend (By
Nitchamam Rural Development Association, Chankanai - Saraswathi Community Center)
Comrade K.A. Subramaniam has passed away.
Only his body evanesced. His memories will never leave us and never fade
away. Simplicity, determination and love for the people were his principal
leadership qualities. It helped him to carry out the party's policies in a
composed way. He has full acceptance and approval from the people of
Nitchamam - Chankanai.
Photo 59: Comrade When Nitchamam Leader Comrade Dharmalingam signed as the
witness on behalf of the congregation at the engagement of N.
Raveendran and Sathiamalar (19-11-1986)
Our people will never forget the determined
guidance he gave to our village on the battlefield of that day. It was the
basis for us to walk upright as human beings and make other progress. Not
only that, but in the aftermath of the October 21, 1966, uprising, the Chankanai struggle
was set ablaze. If that lit is misdirected, it would have gone useless.
However, the Communist Party and Comrade K.A. Subramaniam, through fierce struggles,
defended the small ablaze and calmly turned it into a vast wildfire against
oppression, injustice and discrimination.
If any liberation struggle is guided by the
right policy and the right leadership, the losses can be less and the victories
will be more. Our struggles of the day are proof of that. The basic
reason for that is the policy of the Communist Party and the guidance of people
like Comrade KAS.
And one more thing, many of the militants
who took part in the protests in our village and in various parts of the North
were imprisoned for several months on murder charges and taken to court close
to execution. At that time the responsibility for the successful conduct of
these cases was handed over to Comrade KAS by the party.
Photo 60: With Comrades Kanti Abeyasekere, S. K. Senthivel and Ratnayake during their
trip to the People's Republic of China in 1975
Comrade KAS’s dedication towards those
cases, helped immensely in rescuing and protecting the militants from
punishment. He never hesitated to break the law or use the law for the
benefit of the people and the working class.
Comrade KAS is a man who will never be
forgotten by the people of our village. In his way the new generation
will surely move forward sturdily towards victories.
Nitchamam
Rural Development Association, Chankanai -
Saraswathi Community Center.
47.
Architect of the Younger
Generation (by Vadukkottai K. Gunaratnam)
The news of Mr. K.A. Subramaniam's demise
pained me deeply. He is a close friend with whom I have been acquainted
for many years. He did not live for himself and his family but for the
welfare of the community. He is a celebrated man who worked and lived
with high ambition and purpose.
In today's era many people involved in social work, for so many
reasons move themselves into inactive mode, but Mr. KAS proudly completed the
work he had undertaken. He has done it until the end. He shaped many younger
generations for the noble cause of continuing the work he was doing.
He did not falter in the objective of liberating the working class, even
when he was ill at the end of the day. Continuing his visionary mission
is the only endowment we make for our best friend.
Vadukkottai K. Gunaratnam,
Attorney and Prominent Notary
Justice of the Peace and Informal Magistrate.
Photo 61: Dr Akilan Kadirgamar , a lecturer
and political economist at the University of Jaffna
, delivered a memoir on the theme of "Covid - 19 Great
Infectious Budget" to mark 31st Anniversary on 27 November 2020
48.
In Your Determined Path….
(By National Arts and Literary Association - Switzerland branch)
Photo 62: Comrades V. Vanniasingam,
Selvam and Ravi
Comrade K.A. Subramaniam is not with us
today. But his legacy will forever
remain among our people. In addition,
my journey will continue in the purposeful path he left behind.
Comrade K.A. Subramaniam joined the Left Movement
at an early age and began his ambitious mission for the liberation of the
oppressed masses. He has always been at the forefront of the political
ideological struggles of the Communist Party of Sri Lanka, positioning himself
on the correct side and formulating policies and programs in line with the
realities of our country. He played a major role in formulating working
programs, setting up mass establishment and advancing in the path of mass
struggle.
He fought valiantly at the forefront of all
mass struggles waged by the Communist Party of Sri Lanka against the state and
other social oppressions in the North. Comrade K.A. Subramaniam was brutally beaten
several times by the police during these clashes. The torture he suffered
during the struggle and the illnesses that accompanied it caused him to leave
us so quickly.
The demise of Comrade K.A. Subramaniam is a disaster not only
for his family and the Communist Party (Left) but also for the working class
and the oppressed masses. Together with his family, comrades, friends and
people who are grieving the loss of Comrade K.A. Subramaniam, we also pay our respects
with the highest esteem.
5.12.1989
National Arts and Literary Association
(Switzerland branch)
49.
A Grammar for Higher perception
(By E. Selvanayagam)
I’m one among those who have
known him for 30 years. The first time I met him was at a house on Jaffna Clock
tower Road, where he was engaged to be married to a woman from a different
community. His marriage, in spite of his parents' opposition at a time, when
untouchability and oppression were rampant, had caused a great deal of
controversy and sentiment among many young people in Jaffna (Yazhpanam).
I had no knowledge or acquaintance with the Marxist-Leninist policy he pursued
at the time I met him. However, his activities had an immense impact on
my soul. The first in person contact with him took place at their
electrical factory in Veeru Maraikkayar, located on Stanley Road. At that
time Veeru Maraikkayar was a communist from India.
Photo 63: The
‘Thinapathy’ news on 3 May 1969 about the banned May Day procession in 1969
At that time I was a DMK
activist and supporter who was greatly impressed by the reformist views of Periyar E. V.
Ramasamy and C. N. Annadurai . It was during this period that Comrade K.A. Subramaniam instilled
in me a vision of looking at society from a new angle, saying, "Can we
look at society like this?" I have been very interested in learning
Marxism ever since. Comrade K.A. Subramaniam helped me
in many ways to shape my vision about society.
By that time the Communist
Party (pro-Chinese) decided to override the May Day march, which had
been banned by the government on May 1, 1969. It was
time for the police to search the party leaders by throwing nets in order to
prevent the procession from taking place that day. Police in Jaffna
(Yazhpanam) are eager to know where and when the procession will depart.
They sniffed around each corner of the city.
At that time, I had the
opportunity to stay with Comrade K.A. Subramaniam in a
house in the city of Jaffna. Even on that occasion when he was in the same
place, he did not tell me until the last moment where and how the procession
was going to depart. His tendency to be restrained made him a unique
leader above all. The majesty with which Comrade K.A. Subramaniam went in
front of them during the procession that day and the riot and beatings that
took place when he met the police face to face can still be seen before our
eyes.
The April 1971 uprising
was a time when the police were searching for Communist Party of Ceylon
(pro-Chinese) leaders all over the country, including Comrade K.A. Subramaniam. Even
then Comrade K.A. Subramaniam came to
me and said, "Selvanayagathar, We should go find out about the situation
of Comrade Karthikeyan."
Comrade K.A. Subramaniam and I
went to Karthikeyan's house in a car. I parked the car a short distance from
his house and went alone to Karthikeyan's house to find about his
condition. After knowing that Comrade Karthikeyan was safe, Comrade K.A. Subramaniam felt much
relieved. It was a memorable event. The forlorn before and the relief he felt
afterwards made him stand tall as a communist fighter.
His feeling that he considered
the safety of his comrades more important than his own could be the feeling of
a truly supreme communist fighter.
Both these occasions are
events that will always be remembered, whenever I think about Comrade K.A. Subramaniam.
Jaffna (Yazhpanam) E.
Selvanayagam
________________________________________
“Our nation is strong. Our
nation is young. His eminent songs have not yet been played. Our
song will come back free from deception, from trifling slogans, from murderers,
from executions, from massacres, from uncertainty, from suspicion.”
Thanks: The essence of human society
________________________________________
50.
In memory of my father… (By S.
S. V. Sathiarajan)
To Sathiamanai…
Photo 64: Comrade KAS with his family in
1969.
At eight o'clock on the night
of 1989-11-27 Malaysian time, I heard that tragic news through Kulenthi Anna's
phone call. It broke my heart and made my blood swell. I still do not
understand what to do.
“The pinnacle of wisdom, The
linguistics of love, My Dad!!!". He is a legend, a historical hero, a
genius who lived by the grammar of this word. Every moment I think about that
my Heart spurn, wilder. Senthil uncle's telegram, got the news.
Dad! The life you have
lived is immense, very, very enormous. I have read and heard about many
historical figures, great leaders, great martyrs, patriotic warriors, and brave
fighters. I wondered about their precious human values. But it was
only when I saw those values in you, I began to understand myself. It was
the awe of you that made me a human being.
Dad! Even when I engaged
in political activities, which is entirely contrary to your magnificent policy,
I was able to find and work with the greatest principle, “unity in diversity”.
It is solely due to the political knowledge you have taught me. Even if I
sometimes make "ignorant” mistakes, I can realize the mistakes and correct
them, that is the way you taught me.
Dad! You are an
intellectual, a walking university. Yes, it was through you that I came
to understand the world, and through you I learned to love people. Only
you, who taught me that slavery is not permanent, and it can be eradicated. You
taught me that slavery was not a "divine law" but a conspiracy of the
oppressor. The elemental lesson I learned from you made me a fighter.
Dad! I count the time I
lived with you and the time after that. You will be leaving home before
we wake up from sleep. You will come home after we are asleep.
"People's liberation is none other than the complete liberation of the
oppressed. That form of liberation is the true Independence of the
country. I will continue to struggle until that day comes. I will
not give up the struggle due to old age or illness. I will do my duty
until my death. “ . “I would be glad to see you (us) as fellow fighters by my
side in that great struggle. Otherwise I will bow my head in shame and be
in pain,” You raised us by telling that.
Photo 65: Drawn image of Comrade KAS
with his signature.
When you spoke to me one day
in late November 1984, you said, “A closer look at the political situation
reveals the potential for India's hands of expansion to fall on Sri
Lanka. If such an alien occupation takes place in my country, I will
march as a fighter on the just battlefield against it. I will fight
against any form of aggression. I want to say something to you (me) as my
son. You must not knowingly or unknowingly commit such an act of
betrayal, that is, of betraying or mortgaging the homeland. That is
what I expect from you. “ you said that.
When I was released from the
torture camp of the Sri Lankan government, my country was enslaved to
foreigners. Many who do not understand it said that the country has
entered a wonderful era. I even stumbled. Dad, you are my perfect guide,
you showed me the path of righteousness. Dad, you are my light of life.
Another incident: Dad, you
were the first person to condemn the invasion of foreign planes on June 4,
1987, before the occupation, in the name of "refugee
assistance". You stood firm and tall in your policy, when many
politically blind people who could not understand it then attacked you with
“word of mouth”. Dad, your adherence to your policies is much taller than
the Himalayas. Time has passed. After Four months and four days, those
who entered our country under the name of "Refugee Aid '' swam in the
blood of innocents and massacred our people.
Photo 66: Comrade KAS meeting with one
of the Chinese Communist Party Leader in Beijing 1979.
Only then did many realize
their mistake and accept your opinion. No one gets any benefit from the
wisdom that comes after the passage of time. Many do not understand your
political decisions. Understood but did not admit their mistakes.
The world is aware of the attempts made by the state terrorists of Sri Lanka to
harm your life and body. Similarly, people know that strangers have
indirectly tried to harm you. Politically blind people without all such
understanding also exist.
I have heard others say that
you worked tirelessly for the victory of the Nationwide
Left in the early 1950s and about your
heroic contribution to the nationwide national ownership operations of the late
1950s.
I am pleased to hear that many
have lauded you as the heroic commander of the glorious mass struggle waged by
the Communist Party on behalf of the subpressed
masses against the tight caste oppression in the country, Jaffna (Yazhpanam),
1966.
History has not forgotten your
full contribution on May 1, 1969, International
Workers' Rights Day, even though your body was
badly beaten by state police dogs, thwarting attempts by state terrorists to
prevent it.
I remember you being saved in
the many murderous actions taken by the Sri Lankan government. Especially
during the uprisings launched by the Janatha
Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) in 1971. I also
remember the brutal life we faced at that time.
Photo 67: Comrade KAS with his wife and
children in 1989.
When the country's bourgeoisie
" sowing the seeds of racism in the north and south of the country in
order to strengthen its power and strength, and when the small seed of those
racists has become a great dissent.” You boldly said it is not in the best
interests of the country.
I recall that when the Tamil
leadership of the brokerage bourgeoisie, which claimed to represent the Tamil
people, advanced the secessionist slogan based on its parliamentary politics,
the party firmly pointed out its consequences and you clearly explained its
mistake, despite the large wave of pro-secessionism.
I recall the actions you took
when the party launched a determined boycott against the pseudo-democratic
system of parliament in 1977 and as a result you were on the lookout for state
terrorism and assassination attempts.
At every stage your
determination does not falter, except to be fructified. You worked harder for
your policy, which made your taller and stronger than the Himalayas. Is that
why the Death feared to get close to you?
Even when the economic crisis
of the 1980s affected you in many ways, you did not betray your policy.
Even when there is a threat to your life, you do not deviate from your policy,
you never deviate. The joy I felt being born as your son is immeasurable.
I feel so proud to be your son. Just as your political career, your personal
life was equally surprising and magnificent. You made my mother your life
partner for the principle you have. As far as I know you are the first of
a few who have lived life as a whole couple in both joy and sorrow!
You have done a great job of
politics by getting comrades like you who are courageous, principled and
determined fighters. I was one of those who was amazed at the new
approach when you and your comrades came to each other through exchanges,
concessions, criticism and self-criticism to make the right political decisions
in a timely manner. It is the social discipline you have taught your children
as a father that has helped us to live upright. The priority you gave to
Mom’s decisions set a precedent for many. Your characteristic of not trying
to impose your decisions on others, the way you express your opinion in a
nascent way, was surprising to many.
Photo 68: Comrade KAS’s children
published hand written newsletter called “Siru Pori” ( Mini Spark) in 1970s.
Though you had no faith in
religion or other superstitions, the respect you showed towards the faith of
others, has multiplied your esteem.
During the time we were
reading, you would often say, "Study for knowledge, not for
wealth." In the late 1970s your close friend A.C.D, was the Director
of Soyza Air Lanka, I had all the qualifications for the job vacancies
requested by that company. I would have gotten a job there if you had
used your own influence. But you did not do that. I was heartbroken
at that age when I could not understand it. But I feel very proud about
you when I think about it today. I scorn.
In 1989 a close friend of yours
offered me a decent job. I told you about that. In response, you
wrote, “I would have been happy if Sathiarajan had got the job. But I
think Subramaniam's son was the one to get the job. That’s why I don’t
like this. The status I have belongs to my party. I do not want to
use it for my home. I hope my children will not misuse it either.”
Not only me but many others were amazed at your firm decision. Irrespective to
the suffering you went through politically, physically and economically, you
took that firm decision.
Many have gratefully
remembered that you encouraged and nurtured them to become self-reliant
citizens in their community by understanding many talents that they did not
even know existed.
It is very difficult for my
brother to continue his education in Sri Lanka. Therefore, when asked to
apply for a scholarship to a socialist country, you made no change to your firm
decision of not using your political influence even for education.
Even during my sister's wedding, you had an ideal
marriage according to your principle. You
have not failed to acknowledge any of our reasonable decisions. Also, you
never fail to support it despite the pseudo-controls of society when it seems
fair to you.
Dad! You are so
unique. You have proven this in many ways. History has shown many
times in your political life that many of the things you prophesied have
happened. You were one among the first fighters to carry out the armed
struggle for the liberation of our homeland. History has shown that
many who wanted to negotiate a political deal with you at gunpoint have had to
turn their backs on their own politics. You're a fanatic in politics!
In May 1970, The May Day
procession that shook the city have started at the Jaffna, Chankanai, the land of bravery, arrived at City Hall. Addressing a public
meeting there, you recounted the
1969 state atrocities, saying, "Even if I am
shot and thrown into the flesh, thousands of people will emerge from every drop
of blood that flows from my body." They will carry out the people's
liberation struggle,” you said amidst thunderous applause. The incident
is still in front of my eyes.
Dad! Often when you
advise us you say, “Do not think that you have to live with the address of,
“the children of Subramaniam”. Instead, if you live to the point where
people say that the father of this child is Subramaniam, I will consider myself
a success in my family life.” We think of it as scripture and have been
going on and on until today.
'A nation, a party, an
individual must stand on his own feet.'. Dad, you have developed our
self-confidence and responsibility by saying that very often. On the other
hand, I have never met someone who values the collective decision,
advice, and opinions of his fellow men.
Dad! Dad!! Your
memories will continue to guide us. We will never betray you or your
policy. We will always be on the side of the nation and the people, and
their liberation. We will participate as much as we can in the political activities
taken forward by your great comrades. We will do our part for greater
human liberation.
Let us walk in the path
of the ideas of the outstanding Marxism-Leninism-Mao
Zedong.
Long live the Communist
Party of Sri Lanka (Left) leader!
Malaysia SSV Sathiarajan
________________________________________
Attachments
________________________________________
A1. Letter from Comrade Madhakal
V. Kandasamy from China (Chinese Radio Tamil Broadcasting) to Mrs. Valliammai Subramaniam….
15-12-1989
Respected
Teacher,
A letter from my friend K.Ganesh from
Karanthankolla Estate, which I received this morning, conveyed this shocking
news to me.
He wrote that his son Satheakeerthy had
informed him over the phone, and he had rushed there immediately and paid the
homage before the body was taken to Jaffna.
For me, one of the rays that had been
working for the communist movement for about 40 years has vanished. One
of our frontline soldiers had vanished. It is not possible to find in the
future, an untiring comrade like him who has worked and worked tirelessly
throughout his life. In short, the era is over. Who like him is
going to spearhead this movement? He has left the question mark.
I have been conversant with him since
1954. I also remember those days when he married you in the early
60s. In the early days we were both so accustomed to being
colleagues. Later he rose to prominence due to his hard work, talents and
noble habits. The movements under his leadership never went sour.
His fearless heart and tireless work will be remembered forever. I tried
to meet him before leaving for Beijing, but I failed to meet him.
Nevertheless, the last memorabilia I have
are the book, the magazine and the letters he sent me a month ago. I will
always cherish them as souvenirs. The anxiety of not having to see him before
leaving exists within me. What to do, it’s my fate!
I have seen very few life partners like you
who have worked day and night to support His cause. As we do not have
that privilege, we are not able to work in harmony as he did. It was only
with your help and support that he was able to move forward with his
magnificent path of glory. His loss must be irreparable to you. But
it is a disaster for the community and the Party. I hope you find some
relief in counting this.
I know he was sick but didn’t expect it to
be this serious. I intended to seek his advice on several issues from here as
well. It is painful to think that my plans of reopening the Tamil section of
the foreign language publication, which I thought he will do all the needed
from Srilanka, got spoiled by his demise. However, we all must accept whether
we like it or not, something that inevitably happens. Finally, I extend
my deepest condolences to you, your three children, son-in-law Ravi and your grandchildren, for
forgetting that untimely death, and to lessen the suffering caused by his
sudden demise, to remember him and to continue what he left behind.
Achievements of K.A. Subramaniam will last forever.
Regards,
Mathagal V. Kandasamy from Radio Peking
A2. About History…..A Poem - By Professor S. Sivasegaram in memory of K.A. Subramaniam in 1990
To make history
Conducting a mighty army
Many were the swordsmen
The swordsmen
History of the sword
Name changed and name forgotten
A history of anonymity
Winners write
A story full of lies
Is it history?
Clay inscription
Paper or history?
He who kindled the first fire
Handloom wheel
Stone paper
Those who discovered the pest
Developers of spoken language
Unknown history’s
Words and actions are forgotten
Even if devastated
A living history
Human development
Rare actions of human beings
History made,
Settle down without writing
Living history.
- Prof S. Sivasegaram
Thanks Noolaham "Puthiya Bhoomi" 1990.04 (In memory of Comrade KAS)
A3. Unity and Struggle -
By Professor S. Sivasegaram in memory of K.A. Subramaniam in 1991
Photo 69: Professor S. Sivasegaram with Comrade KAS family in Kandy in 1994.
Mr. N. Shanmugathasan's memoirs were recently published
in English. On reading it, the ghostly image of an individualist, N. Shanmugathasan, was many times larger than the
image of a leading fighter who led the Marxist-Leninist movement of the Communist Party of
Sri Lanka and screened the party and the movement. This did not surprise me
when I recall my first meeting with Mr. N. Shanmugathasan.
By the time I went on to complete my higher studies
in the UK I had a deep acquaintance with left-wing thinking. When he returned
to Sri Lanka in 1970, he was part of the Marxist-Leninist faction of the Communist
Party of Ceylon (' Peking ) I had great faith and sympathy for the so-called
'section'). At the small office of the Ceylon Trade
Union Federation in Kandy, I got in touch with Mr. Malliya
Goda and got acquainted with some party sympathizers in the upcountry.
Unexpectedly one day I met Mr. N. Shanmugathasan and got to talk for a while. Shanmugathasan was convinced when he found out
that he was staying at a luxury guest house Hotel Suisse in Kandy. The explanation for that was
revealed to be his health and the need to travel frequently. While this does
not give me complete satisfaction it does not seem right to dismiss the
leadership of a party for this reason alone. However, Mr. Mallya Goda said that
the party's opponents were using the same weapon to attack the party. (Later,
at a public meeting, JVP's keynote speaker Rohana
Wijeweera joked, "Comrade Shan needs a pillow if he wants to make a
revolution.") N. Shanmugathasan and his daughter stayed at my
house on their next visit to Kandy. N. Shanmugathasan's vast knowledge and intelligence
are sure to attract the attention of anyone who speaks to him. The two days he
stayed with us were spent happily. During that time, and during a conversation
with him in Colombo shortly before the April 1971 uprising, one thing went deep
into my mind. I could always see N. Shanmugathasan trying to make himself more
important. With this in mind, it is not uncommon for him to repeatedly appeal
with great self-pity that the government has put itself in detention after the
1971 riots. This is why in his memoirs ( Political
Memoirs of an Unrepentant Communist ) he mentions at length with gratitude the virtue of a
high official who allowed him to take food from home when he was in custody. I
think he missed the names of many of the comrades who stood in the front line
fighting for control of the party despite their differences with him until 1977
and got beaten up by the police.
Even when he now thinks of someone he wants to forget,
he still remembers the good times that the Communist Party missed. I did not
know my friend K.A. Subramaniam before 1977. I know K.A. Subramaniam was one of those who rejected the
decision to expel N. Shanmugathasan during the 1972 riots, saying it
was wrong. It was only later that I came to know about the mistakes of N. Shanmugathasan's political position that he had
honestly exposed within the party in a very restrained manner. I was, however,
dissatisfied with those matters as I was aware of the lack of consultation and
explanation at the lower levels of the party about it rather than the manner in
which the decision on expulsion was taken. As a result of N. Shanmugathasan's return to the 1977 elections and
his misguided stance, his loyal comrades who were close to him ran away from
him. It is in this context that I first met Mr. K.A. Subramaniam (KAS) at a friend's (HLK Karavita)
house. The next meeting, which took place in early 1982, took place in the same
house on a few subsequent occasions. Didn't get a chance to talk to him much
longer. All I know is that he approached with the desire to unite the divided
good forces and establish a strong establishment. HLK Karavita was unable to
explain clearly to friend KAS that it was due to the weaknesses within the Maoist-affiliated Party that day.
Photo 70: HLK Karavita was addressing the meeting and Comrade Sivathasan translating.
HLK Karavita, however, asked me to
co-operate with the left communist forces in the north. That rapprochement,
which began with Karavita's recommendation, was fostered by left - wing
communist sympathetic press contacts. Following the death of my friend Kailasapathy, my contribution to the press was
a little more in demand. In early 1984, before leaving for a foreign country, I
went to Jaffna to attend the Kailasapathy Memorial Conference organized by
the National Arts and Literary Association and stayed at my friend KAS's
house.
When friend KAS was standing at home, even though it
was my first meeting with his family, I very easily got used to them being like
one at home. There I was able to notice a situation where everyone was saying
their opinions with an open mind without restraint. The difference between what
friend KAS had told me about the party and himself and what N. Shanmugathasan had said had a profound effect on
my mind.
Friend
KAS, who writes and speaks very clearly and honestly about the past mistakes
and contributions of the party, the work done by the party comrades and future
plans and the strengths and weaknesses of the party, also said a little about
himself. He never spoke or wrote a word about his past mistakes, his
achievements, the atrocities he experienced, the sacrifices he made. Even the
party comrades did not tell me about these. I came to know about the excellent
contribution of the friend KAS through old time comrades in Colombo. When
talking about the faults of the party he does not fail to mention his
responsibility in it. I do not remember him blaming any individual for any
wrongdoing.
Photo 71: Professor S. Sivasegaram addressing in the Comrade
KAS’s 22nd Memorial meeting in 2011.
His
influence on the party and the revolutionary movement was greater than his own
interests and his own pride. He could never give me everything. For example, I
did not embark on the task of translating the poems of the Hungarian poet Santor Petafi into Tamil without fulfilling his request and having the
opportunity to do so. Then the poet K.Ganesh fulfilled his wish. I could easily fulfill smaller requests
than this. Yet under no circumstances did he ask me for any help for himself.
All of his best qualities like this made him realize how he possessed the
qualities of a good leader and a good servant at the same time. Yet the most useful
lesson I learned from my association with him was about 'unity and struggle'.
As he speaks to me he once spoke of the unification of the forces with which we
can unite. But he noted that the enemy is united with the forces that must
unite with us. I saw this as a warning to all liberation struggles and
progressive forces not only in Sri Lanka but around the world. His words are a
testament to his long political experience and observation ... I saw this as a
warning to all liberation struggles and progressive forces not only in Sri
Lanka but around the world. His words are a testament to his long political
experience and observation ... I saw this as a warning to all liberation
struggles and progressive forces not only in Sri Lanka but around the world. His
words are a testament to his long political experience and observation ...
One
can only imagine how many rare opportunities we have missed when comparing the
strength of Sri Lanka's progressive, left, patriotic and national liberation
movements with the strength of the enemy. Many other movements, such as
individualism, right-wing opportunism and left-wing extremism, have disrupted
the unity of the masses and weakened the struggle against the reactionary
prefectural force. Despite the possibility of unity, the forces that work
together have split and weakened themselves in the recent history, especially
in the post-1977 elections.
There
are many times when unity is emphasized. However unity with anyone, on any
basis In the post-1956 elections we saw the surrender of the class to the
exploiting class in the name of unity for office and parliamentary seats, in
view of the vague short-term benefits of unity. We know left-wing leaders who behave
in a way that is convenient to the enemy with the intention of 'teaching a
lesson' to others through bitterness and frustration. The Left, which had
joined hands with those who had raised racist cries to teach a lesson to the
betrayed ITAK in 1966, the leadership of Philip
Gunawardena, who
joined the UNP to avenge the betrayal of NM Perera's
leadership, and the left - wing leaders who acted in such unethical way as to
lead the UNP to a landslide victory in 1977 to teach the SLFP
a lesson, did not defiance the enemy but cut their noses. If it can be trusted
that it belongs to friend KAS who played a major role in the emergence of such
a prefectural leadership to Sri Lanka Communist Party (Left) that can be seen within the progressive voices with the
determination not to give up its struggle on behalf of the oppressed people
while emphasizing unity.
Photo 72: Professor S. Sivasegaram and Comrade Sanjay Singhvi,
Coordinator, Asian Coordination Committee of the International Coordination of
Revolutionary Parties and Organizations (ICOR) and Head of International
Affairs, Communist Marxist-Leninist
Party of India are listening to Comrade KAS wife’s speech
during the 24th Commemoration Event of K.A. Subramaniam in 2013.
Friend
KAS never allowed me to make any changes in the publication of the things I
write without my permission. On a few occasions he asked me for permission to
make some changes and has done them in the accompanying condition. If I explain
that such a change is not necessary, he has accepted it and acted. I have
admitted twice to a mistake pointed out by Cheran
in one of my reviews. In this connection, I wrote less about a particular
writer. That writer died while it was being published. Mr. KAS thought it would
be better to avoid that reference in this situation. This also seemed very
reasonable to me. On another occasion, the printers omitted the final lines of
one of my poems, thinking that it might offend the Indian 'peacekeeping force'.
Even though it was somewhat acceptable to me Friend KAS expressed his regret
about it and republished the whole poem on the next occasion.
My
poems are not easily set to music as I am more involved in revival poetry.
Audio Cassette of the National Arts and Literary Association entitled ' We Will Create New History ' reminding me of the importance of music When my friend
KAS sent it to me, he pointed out the problems caused by the structure of my
poems .After this, I composed some poems as musical songs .He was very
satisfied about these. However he never asked me to write like this under any
circumstances. I found in his comments on my writings that he had the maturity
to recognize the strengths and weaknesses of each and to criticize without
exaggeration and without the listener's mind. Here I felt his experiential
maturity in unity and struggle.
An incident that took place at the end of the January 1984 Kailasapathy Memorial Meeting is also noteworthy here. On the first day
of the meeting, a person closely associated with an anti - party newspaper was
involved in an attempt to intimidate me with someone who had a difference of
opinion with him. He objected to some of the comments he had made in connection
with it and sought to intimidate them into continuing to do so. The weight was
noticed while talking to friends far away Friend KAS slowly came to me and
asked "What is the problem?" The young man who tried to intimidate me
slipped away saying "Nothing, just some doubts ...". The way my
friend dealt with the problem made me cringe. When the matter was settled as if
nothing had happened without a demonstration, he sent some friends to support
me until I boarded the bus to Colombo and returned home. I think that has
allowed it and its mass institutions to continue to function effectively. The
position taken by the Left Communist Party during the struggle for the right of
national minorities to self-determination, the main opposition candidates who
contested the presidential election against the anti-democratic measures of the
post-1977 UNP government, and the referendum on the anti-democratic
action of the government in the 1983 parliamentary dissolution issue was a good
practical explanation for the policy of unity and struggle. The party by
working together with all the forces that can unite in a crisis situation. It
is still in a position to function today because of the strengthening of itself
and the patriotic progressive forces. I think the leadership and exemplary work
of friend KAS is very important in this.
Friend
KAS who does not consider himself more important than any party comrades. He
did not want to endanger himself in vain, not only by party members but also by
any of its allies. An example of how the humanity of the Marxist revolution
differs from the worldview of other insurgents. Revolution may require
sacrifices, but his view that futile casualties must be avoided is very much in
line with the views of the Marxist chiefs. It was this humanity that clearly
formed the basis for recognizing the contradictions between the people and the
people who disagreed with the friend and made him admire and value him.
Friend
KAS 's leadership of the Left Communist Force came at a time when the Left
Movement was in dire straits. It is our reasonable expectation that the
contribution of friend KAS will be an important part of the unwritten history
of tomorrow's society, leading to great success and a new harmonious society.
- S. Sivasegaram - Thanks to ”Chempatahai” November, 1991 )
A4. A poem in tribute to K.A. Subramaniam by Poet Sillaiyoor Selvarajan
Comrades who have gathered here
To recall in a cascade
Thoughts of a great man called KAS
His life of bravery, his conduct of humility
His broad outlook based on service,
To pay tribute to that immortalised soul,
Allow me a mere ten minutes to sing of my man.
Photo 73: With Comrades K. Daniel and S. Sivathasan
Yes, I arrogantly referred to him as my man.
I called him my man
For there was such intimate fellowship between us.
Forgive me if I was wrong.
I said so since I was one who shared and lived among friends
In the warmth of his shelter with his wife and children
And comrades who united as one in the policies of struggle.
Forgive me if I was wrong.
Our friendship budded in my schooldays
Then we ran free. We were mere lads
Who parted company
In our adolescence, unaware of the revolutionary sweep,
Not knowing that we will meet again
To merge through struggles for rights that would dominate,
Through arguing the case for the oppressed and
The class struggle of the workers,
In political debate and in battles for cultural thought.
We met again in battlefronts, on the same side.
I met at St. Henrys College Ilavalai |
KAS, the meticulous student
Who preserved silence, with little time for chit chat,
A man of mystery,
An underground fighter who lives on after his death,
A leader who breaks his silence at the head of a mass rally,
A hero who did not sing and swear only to surrender,
A hero who achieved things without compromise.
Poetry stammers to describe that joy.
A silent tribute for KAS–
The fighter who refused to be silent
And spoke up in struggle for the masses?
A silent tribute in place of a battle cry?
Forgive me, I cannot!
We have been captivated by the communist way
Along the path of Marxism Leninism.
We met. We spoke. We embraced the path
And entered the battlefield on different fronts.
I, in the front of art and literature, and
He, in the field of relentless action in struggle.
Having consumed the poison that
Emerged in the churning of the cement factory struggle
To feed the ambrosia to the folk*
He continued in struggle in the Hartal,
In the militant demonstrations for equality in education,
To dedicate his efforts to working class struggles,
To lend his shoulder to the oppressed in caste conflicts,
To lead the way like the flame of the lamp
Amid ideological confusion in the worker’s unions,
To identify the issues by scientific analysis
Without losing heat by communal violence,
To work like a tusker and
Struggle with character to the end with relentless militancy,
And to lead a life true to the definition of a martyr.
I am a friend of KA
Subramaniam, my man,
The personification of friendship,
The able master of egalitarianism.
Poetry stammers to describe that joy.
I recall the Comrade KAS
Who identified the principles that prevent filth
From infiltrating art and literature and,
When I among others was tempted,
Stood behind to warn me,
“Hey, Selva, do not be baffled”, and show me the way.
Poetry stammers to describe that joy.
As the times of close relationship
Cast their shadows in my mind and soak my thought
Poetry stammers to describe that joy.
For me to sing of the times
When KAS and I discussed in privacy,
The warm hospitality of his dear wife,
The sweet words of the three tender children,
Sathiarajan, Satheakeerthy and Sathiamalar,
Calling me “Uncle”
In a tone akin to the comfort of a cool spring,
I have not the words.
Poetry stammers to describe that joy.
The friend of the dispossessed, we have been dispossessed of you.
KAS! My Marxist salutations to you!
Farewell KAS! But
The golden moments of happiness I had with you,
The golden moments in which we shared
With sweet drinks and our majestic confidence in
The desire to make a new world,
They have not gone away.
Your little boys, your little girl, your son-in-law
And so many more whom you had aroused before you went.
Those are golden moments, tender golden moments.
Farewell KAS! When you return
Your task would have been done.
The thoughts that you had,
The scenes of your great dreams
Would all have been realised.
Farewell my prince! When you return
With the desire for equality,
Communism would have blossomed on earth.
With aching hearts we would await your
Return from leave to see that new world.
KAS! My Marxist salutations to you.
[This poem in tribute to Comrade K.A. Subramaniam was read
out as funeral oration by KAS’s class mate Mr. Sillaiyoor Selvarajan a close
friend and a leading Sri Lankan Tamil poet.]
* Note: Refers to Hindu mythology where the Devas and Asuras
churned the celestial ocean of milk with the celestial serpent as rope to
extract its ambrosia, and when the serpent spat venom Lord Shiva swallowed it
to save all living beings.
A5. Comrades KA Subramaniam as
“KAS Comrade” and his accomplishments and memories ..... – By K. Subbaiah 2012
Today (27.11.2012) is the 23rd Remembrance
Day of Comrade K.A. Subramaniam, one of the Northern Leaders
of the Communist Party of Sri Lanka. At a young age he worked in the
engineering department of the Kankesanthurai Cement
Factory and was actively involved in trade union activities.
I had the opportunity to meet Comrade K.A. Subramaniam in mid 1961 at the party
office on Stanley Road Jaffna . Due to his friendship I became involved in
youth union activities and had the opportunity to become a member of the
Communist Party and worked with him. Comrade KAS is the best party organizer.
It was natural for him to know his acquaintances in some way and to be able to
bring them to join the party, the youth association and the mass organizations.
On 10.03.1963, a major turning point in the
history of the Communist Party. He worked hard for the success of the
prestigious Youth Conference held at old Jaffna Town Hall. It is noteworthy
that he set up branches of youth associations in the hamlets of the North and
led hundreds of young people to attend the conference on behalf of the
settlements, and provided guidance to many of the youth who attended the
conference who later became responsible communists.
Photo 74: With WA Dharmadasa, Peter Keuneman and Sarath
Muttetuwegama in 1964
The
conference was held on 10.03.1963 and was attended by various leaders including
comrades Peter Keuneman, N. Shanmugathasan, Sarath Muttetuwegama, V.
Ponnambalam, M. Karthikeyan and WA Dharmadasa who were prominent
leaders of the Communist Party. At that conference, Comrade K.A. Subramaniam was unanimously elected
as the Northern Secretary of the Youth Organization. The party split in
two after the Youth Conference. KAS was actively involved in strengthening the
revolutionary team led by N. Shanmugathasan.
After the split in the Communist Party,
anti-imperialist struggles intensified as Marxist ideas became more deeply
ingrained in the youth, and struggles to establish an egalitarian (Socialist) society in the North began to germinate
little by little. During this period the struggles of the oppressed against
untouchability and for equality in temples and tea shops erupted.
The Communist Party, which called for an
end to caste oppression, united the oppressed masses and the progressive forces
to build a Mass Movement for the Eradication of Untouchability.
Not only the oppressed people but also the progressives of various castes and
writers have joined this movement. Through this, meetings were held from
village to village to create awareness among the people against the caste system.
KAS, Daniel, Neervai Ponnaiyan and others, including Comrade VA Kandasamy, the
party's Northern Regional Secretary, addressed the gathering and worked
tirelessly to integrate the villagers with the mass movement.
In such a tumultuous situation, on October 21, 1966, a huge march took place
from Chunnakam to Jaffna with the slogan “Let
the caste system crumble and let equality prevail”. Comrades VA Kandasamy
and K.A. Subramaniam, who led the procession, were
arrested and detained by the police but the procession remained in Jaffna.
Reached the courtyard. It is noteworthy that Comrade K.A. Subramaniam was a key participant in
making arrangements for this grand procession and mobilizing the people.
Following the October 1966 uprising, members of mass organizations
involved in protests for equality in tea shops in Chavakachcheri, Chankanai,
Achuveli and Nelliyadi were arrested on false charges and held in remand
prisons. Many dignitaries affiliated with the Communist Party and other
progressive movements visited Jaffna to inform the people of the South of their
plight, as many were detained under strict legal provisions.
Chief
among them is Gampaha constituency MP SD Bandaranayake. Comrade K.A. Subramaniam also pointed out that barricades
had been erected around the temples, temple pits and wells that had been locked
for fear that the oppressed people would enter the villages affected by the
northern struggle. In addition, Jaffna. It is noteworthy that Comrade K.A. Subramaniam had made arrangements
for the detainees to visit the prison and visit the prison.
In May 1969, the then government banned the celebration of May Day on
May 1, as May Day and Poya Day came on the same day. In this
context, the Communist Party “determined to celebrate May Day and determined to
uphold the rights of the working class by fighting against any form of
government repression. It also called for it. Following the party's call,
the working class also held a May Day rally in Jaffna.
Comrade K.A. Subramaniam led the May Day
procession on behalf of the Communist Party. As the procession passed through
Jaffna KKS Road, a large number of policemen gathered and attacked Comrade KAS.
His fingers were smashed in the attack.
Fractures occurred in the shoulder bone and
the bones of the legs. During this time, his comrades Veeru Maraikkayar and S.
Nadarasa, who were trying to stop the attack on KAS, were also seriously
injured. All three were treated at the hospital for a long time. He later
stayed in southern Sri Lanka for some time and received treatment. Comrade
Kanzur, who helped him in this moment, is to be remembered. I can still
remember Comrade KAS walking with great difficulty due to the physical injuries
sustained during this May Day procession.
Photo 75: With SD Bandaranayake, V.A. Kandasamy and Subair
Elankeeran in 1966
Jaffna lawyers have refused to appear in
court for those detained by the courts during protests in areas such as Chankanai,
Achuveli, Manduvil and Matuvil . It is noteworthy that while the Jaffna
lawyers refused and expressed their allegiance to the caste system, KAS was
instrumental in bringing many of the best lawyers from the South to Jaffna in
accordance with the party's resolution and freeing the oppressed from those
cases.
It is necessary to point out here what role
they played in preserving the feudal socio-caste sentiments when the fake masks
of the Jaffna lawyers were torn off by this move.
Comrade
KAS and Sivathasan, who were prominent figures in the
Communist Party at the time, were close relatives. Both are residents of
Kollankaladdy village near Maviddapuram.
Both their families were patrons of the temple and received due respect
during the temple festivities. While their relatives
were marching under the leadership of C. Sundaralingam during the temple entry
protest, Comrade KAS and Sivathasan marched with the oppressed
people on the opposite side of the temple. Their commitment to policy and their
firm stance in dismantling the caste system and their indiscriminate
participation in policy and practice were evident.
During the struggle of the Mass
Movement for the Eradication of Untouchability the feudal
forces carried out various attacks on the oppressed masses. Demands for
equality in tea shops such as shootings, grenades, arson of detainees,
preventing the oppressed from leaving their homes for basic necessities,
destruction of their crops, firing on funerals and interfering with the disposal
of dead bodies in cemeteries. ! Oppressed people were also forced to take up
arms to face such repression.
The armed struggle of the oppressed people,
which began with the October 1966 uprising, lasted until the end of
1969. Following this struggle, many temples, including the Mavittapuram Kandaswamy Temple and the Panrithalaichi
Amman Temple in Madduvil, and all the tea shops in the north
were opened to the oppressed and equality maintained. The Communist Party and
Comrade K.A. Subramaniam, who guided the struggle
during the uprising, will forever be remembered by the oppressed.
The armed struggle waged by the Communist
Party under the leadeship of Comrade N. Shanmugathasan for
the liberation of the oppressed masses was the first armed struggle in Sri
Lanka. Comrade KAS has played a pivotal role in the history of the victory of the
oppressed masses in the face of direct repression and intimidation by the
dominant powers in the capitalist system following the feudal caste
ideology.
Comrade KAS, certainly stood with the
people of Chankanai- Nitchamam who were brutally
attacked in all possible ways and he made them world famous for the bravery of
their heroism and the determination they showed in the struggle. MP of
the Vaddukottai constituency belonging to
the Tamil_Arasu Party (including Chankanai) A.
Amirthalingam once spoke in parliament that the Chankanai- Nitchamam
people's struggle had intensified to the point where he said, "Chankanai has
now become Shanghai."
K.A. Subramaniam was also threatened by
the Tamil fascist LTTE in early 1989 and was rescued by his
long-time comrades who somehow learned of the news, despite the date and time
of his assassination. However, while living in Kandy
with his youngest son, unable to stay at home continuously, he fell ill and
died at the hospital. Comrade KAS tied the Hammer and
Sickle to his wife as a "thali" symbol of his mixed caste
marriage. He has never compromised on his adopted policy even though it
was touched by the threat of fascist forces, and it is no exaggeration to say
that he was an ideal Purusha who lived a life of policy conquest and poverty.
Long live the People's Revolution !!
K. Subbaiah 26/11/2012
Our sincere thanks to.......Soodram
________________________________________
"Communists must always examine why and how each and every
thing. Using their heads, did it fit the reality or not? Is it really
well-documented, or not? That needs to be thought through carefully. Slavery
should not be cultivated by blindly following one another. ”
________________________________________
A6. Reported on 27th November 2012
about 1966 October 21st by N. Raveendran
Photo 76: Comrade
KAS family with Comrade N. Raveendran Family
in 1989
At
the previous meeting, an article about the 1966 October
21 uprising was the topic of discussion. Our
discussion in between was interrupted due to several other commitments. This
meeting is on a date that will be of importance once again. This day will have
a different meaning for the racist forces who have a counter-racism to feed.
That anti-people 'Karthikak Kodunkanavu' (November cruel dream) will soon be
forgotten in the annals (those who fought in the LTTE
along with the fighters of various
organizations who fought for the right to self-determination of the Tamil
nation should be remembered as heroes as a whole; it is not
going to be remembered as the birthday of a fascist -
guided regressive leader). On the contrary, for socialists who
love the liberation of the people, this day will be an inspiration to revive
the revolutionary spirit.
November
27, 1989, the day when KA Subramaniam, a prominent figure who sparked
inspiration whenever we thought of the 1966 October 21
uprising, passed away.
Here
are some memories that come to mind while we discuss about him. About Ten over years
ago KAS's eldest son (Sathiarajan) said; "Appa felt that it was his
biggest mistake to separate from N. Shanmugathasan leadership,"
I denied angrily . I said, "Do not misinterpret what might have been said
in a different context." After Sathiarajan passed away in an
accident, about four or five years later, Satheakeerthy, the youngest son of Comrade KAS,
said the exact same thing. He did not know about the interaction I had
with Sathiarajan.
Considering that both of them said the same thing, I couldn't
continue to assume he couldn't have said it in that context. He has often told
me that the Ceylon Communist Party
generally makes the mistake of splitting from time to time and alienating the
people. His wish was to write about his political activism as "A self-criticism of a communist."
But unfortunately, he passed away before writing.
The
idea of presenting his own political experience as a self-criticism stemmed
from the fact that N. Shanmugathasan wrote about
his experiences in politics as 'Political
Memoirs of an Unrepentant Communist '.
Although Comrade KAS had great respect on N. Shanmugathasan, he has
stated on several occasions that N. Shanmugathasan was
responsible for many
divisions of the Revolutionary
Communist Party, which was furiously against the revisionists.
Photo 77:
With N. Raveendran during the May Day Rally in 1986
When Premalal Kumarasiri, Karthikeyan
and VA Kandasamy split in 1972, their political
position was correct but their institutional approach was wrong; That split
could have been avoided if N. Shanmugathasan had
accepted his political austerities with certain introspection and maintained a
democratic approach. At least after that, the expectation that N. Shanmugathasan would
give up his austerity and maintain a party structure for mass mobilization was
dashed. His writings for the "Worker"
( කම්කරුවා / தொழிலாளி) newspaper and
publications on the national ethnic issue have been the subject of much debate.
He continued to write that Tamils were not a nationality;
Inevitably he could only say ‘growing as a nationality’.
His
obstinacy in denying the right to self-determination on the grounds that it was
not a National Question was just a
matter of appeasing the Sinhalese; It was unnecessary for him to inquire
objective reality, or to search for the denied rights of an oppressed National Question or what
should be done to overcome them.
In
such a context tertiary theory came up for discussion. N. Shanmugathasan is not
ignorant of the fact that on many occasions Mao Zedong approached
the relationship between country and country - people and people - party and
party in tripartite theoretical approach. Just as there was no search for the
welfare of the people in the national and ethnic issue, he failed to see
the reality in international affairs as
well and sought to comment against the Third
World Doctrine in the guise of a great revolutionary.
Unlike those who had waged such a struggle in the past, the struggle continued
as an intra-party struggle and eventually culminated in a special conference.
The vast majority of Tamil members adopted the Third
World Doctrine; All but few of the Sinhala members accepted
the N. Shanmugathasan leadership
correctly. However, N. Shanmugathasan declared
that the Party was
opposed to the Third
World Doctrine, in defiance of the Party's decision
to run arbitrarily. Subsequently, the "Communist
Party of Sri Lanka (Left)" emerged from him, as he came to
the conclusion that he was incapable of leading the revolutionary party leading
the joint decision. It is a well-known fact that the N. Shanmugathasan became
paralyzed. This split affected him more than ever. When it was discovered that
KAS had betrayed him like this, it was true. How could he expect a faith
that transcends doctrine and practice? In fact there was such a militant bond
between N. Shanmugathasan-KAS. N. Shanmugathasan's
leadership was unwavering in its commitment to the struggle for caste abolition
and the subsequent building of the party. KAS was a man who understood the
strength of the N. Shanmugathasan Party
in other ideological matters, propaganda and various communications, while at
the same time acting in a manner conducive to the proper application of
the N. Shanmugathasan transcendentalism
in practical terms. The high respect he had for it was on the N. Shanmugathasan. This is
why KAS is confident that he will continue to be with him without noticing
any of his dryness.
He
concluded that separation from the N. Shanmugathasan was
inevitable because the revolutionary party of the people was to be built rather
than a personal relationship. He put forward radical revolutionary slogans and
considered that the political direction of 'from people to people' could no
longer be pursued without separation from the people. Accordingly, the party
name was changed to "New
Democratic Party".
Such
a new style is essentially Marxism–Leninism-Mao
Zedong thought. Mao Zedong, who
introduced what appears to be a friendly conflict rather than just seeing it as
a contradiction, also spoke of "dealing properly with conflicts among
people"; The right-wing reactionary is the extreme minority — the
Communists are also the minority; The vast majority are intermediaries,
and Mao Zedong's thought
guidance on overcoming them also emerged in Third
World Doctrine. On that basis he would say that getting out
of N. Shanmugathasan was
helpful in building a new party.
However,
he did not get the new style of party structure he wanted. That is why he has
told Sathiarajan and Satheakeerthy that it is wrong to stay away from N. Shanmugathasan. His
persistent justification of the need for secession from me, however, basically
makes me understand that his assumption that I should arrive at such a correct
proletarian ideology past austerity is understandable. At the next meeting I
learned about what I had learned from him through this new ideology and Third
World Doctrine.
(All
these pictures here you can see KAS with Sinhala-Tamil leaders from
different parties. This is the result of the healthy environment in which the
mass movement of the day was not paralyzed by N. Shanmugathasan.)
N. Shanmugathasan became
a dry plaintiff only after he had the arrogance to lead himself on the right
principle after the victories of these struggles.
-N.Raveendran on 27 November 2012
A7. Some Records in the 25 Years
of the Demise of Comrade KA Subramaniam - Lenin Mathivanam 2013
Photo 78: On
K.A. Subramaniam's 25th Farewell Day, a book presentation
and critical event on "Works and Activists on Social Literary Sites"
written by Lenin Mathivanam was held in Women's Education Research Station
(WERC), 58 Dharmaraja Road, Colombo.
Comrade K.A. Subramaniam has made a unique
contribution to the history of the Sri Lankan Left Movement. He should be
looked at in the order of senior leftist comrades N. Shanmugathasan and
M. Karthikeyan. K.A. Subramaniam was, in a sense, a
continuation of the former and its next dimension.
The ideas, thoughts and activities of this
comrade who fought on the side of a working people against the ruling class and
the oppressors are still influential in many ways today. On the occasion of the
25th anniversary of his demise, these twenty-five years have witnessed massive
changes in our country and in other parts of the world. Apart from the
Commemorative Volume (Comrade KAS Memorial Book, published by KA Subramaniam
Memorial Committee, Jaffna, 1989), Comrade KAS being one of the
most important figures in the history of the Sri Lankan left movement, it
does not appear to have come up with any other research.
It is the need of the hour to examine and
evaluate Comrade KAS and to reconcile his characteristics and contribution to
the external world. Attempts to evaluate him in the historical context should
be exposed. They should take place in three main stages.
● First-
Needs to come up with evaluations and studies that will approach him in a
multidisciplinary way.
●
Second- It is essential to
study the generation that came his way and their specialties, and how the
legacy of the KAS has remained unchanged.
● Thirdly- Although the ratings came out with are
relatively low about him, criticisms of them are also necessary.
Seen in this light, his memoirs and book
submissions are necessary, but beyond that, studies and evaluations of this
talent are in need of time. His "I have to go" audio-video testifies to the
fact that he was highly regarded for his invaluable work among the people
beyond the celebrities, and is set to provide much more information about him.
The voice of hope given by this force among the masses, in particular, is a
strength for the development of the left-wing movement.
It is unfortunate that the well-respected
public he served for were farmers and workers could not put their feelings into
words. The above factor is seen as important for the concealment of many
personalities who have acted among the public. Although there were no
opportunities for me to interact directly with the comrade, the left-wing
comrades he nurtured were able to get to know him with the views of his family
and those influential in his personality.
The root cause of this comrade's political
clarity and success is his activity with a scientific dynamic vision. His
personality is versatile. The political vision and practical struggle expressed
in him is seen as an easy nature without difficulty. The main reason for this
is his pro-Marxist stance. He thus accepted Marxism, applied it to our changing
environment and put forward the practice. In particular, the decisions of many
Sri Lankan-Indian leftists to simply apply the European class ideology to the
Tamil context have led to frustration and regression in our context. The way to
mobilize the masses can be found only by understanding that caste, religion,
race and language are all identities in the Tamil community. Comrade KAS
understood this and carried out his establishment activities.
As such, the most important of the
struggles he waged was the struggle against untouchability and caste. In
India, AK Gopalan was the first to take up the
struggle for temple entry on behalf of the oppressed people and to advance his
struggles by presenting those experiences in a way that suits our
environment.
During the struggle of the Mass
Movement for the Eradication of Untouchability the feudal
forces carried out various attacks on the oppressed masses. Demands for
equality in tea shops such as shootings, grenades, arson of detainees,
preventing the oppressed from leaving their homes for basic necessities,
destruction of their crops, firing on funerals and interfering with the
disposal of dead bodies in cemeteries. . Oppressed people were also forced to
take up arms to face such repression.
The armed struggle of the oppressed people,
which began with the October 1966 uprising, lasted until the end of
1969. Following this struggle, many temples, including the Mavittapuram Kandaswamy Temple and the Panrithalaichi
Amman Temple in Madduvil, and all the tea shops in the north
were opened to the oppressed and equality maintained. The Communist Party and
Comrade K.A. Subramaniam, who guided the struggle
during the uprising, will forever be remembered by the oppressed. (K. Subbaiah)
It was possible to see echoes of two trends
on caste issues during and shortly before KAS. A section of those who saw it
from a casteist point of view. These are the majority. The anger that arose in
the wake of the ensuing caste repression by clinging to the rituals and
ceremonies that came along the way was simply burning like an unstoppable riot.
And the upper middle class among the oppressed put forward a cultural struggle
alienated from the working people in order to defend their class interests.
Their struggle was for the emancipation of the Dalit middle class.
Another faction distinguished the caste
issue from the class issue. Their arid class vision led to a kind of
compromise. There is not even a hint of dynamics in their vision and thinking.
They both deal with their confidence as they choose to embark on their play
activities. Comrade KAS saw the caste struggle as part of the class struggle in
such an environment.
His main contribution was to clarify the
political direction of complete liberation towards the unification of the
dimensions and atrocities of the caste. His vital contribution was the mass
mobilization of all democratic forces in the struggle against caste and
untouchability. Thus, the Mass Movement for the Eradication of Untouchability is
the result of the Sri Lankan left seeking to develop Marxism in our
context.
Photo 79: With Comrades S. Patkunam, Chulipuram Nadarajah and Neervai
Ponnaiyan in 1962
One of the key features of KAS was his
dialectical recognition of the fact that caste conflicts had become a class
issue in the Tamil cultural context. His main contribution was to understand
this contradiction in the political arena and to be involved in the
organizational process. His life was marked by a desire to reform and change
more than others.
The following statement by Prof. S. Thillainathan, who was in touch with
him at the time, is noteworthy for his selfless contribution. “In a situation
where many have resorted to the politics of power and position and prestige, he
has devoted himself to a politics that seeks to liberate ordinary workers,
peasants and the poor without resorting to them. He worked hard to strengthen
that political norm, ignored indifference and disease, embraced others and
encouraged efforts to adapt. Specialties of K.A. Subramaniam. Despite his sense of
imminent death, he was overwhelmed by the urge to finish what he had taken ”.
India has been instrumental in creating
Tamil-based liberation movements in Sri Lanka and misleading them. This has to
be seen as part of the Indian expansionist argument. All of India's activities
in relation to Sri Lanka were based on the regional hegemony that unites Sri
Lanka into the states of India.
The Communist Party (Left) boycotted them
until the 1977 elections. In response to the Indo-Sri Lanka Accord of 1987, the Indian
Army spread the red carpet across the country and was welcomed by the
government and the Tamil fascist forces. We know the humiliation, destruction
and loss of the people who benefited from it. In that case, in 1989 Jaffna. The
only reason why he welcomed Sirimavo Bandaranaike to the meeting at
the Pandatharippu Hindu College Play Grounds was
because of the Indian expansionist argument. Kumar
Ponnambalam, Motilal Nehru and others were present at the meeting
which was chaired by KAS. Large numbers of people were attending the meeting.
KAS spoke in this meeting - “What is the problem of the Tamil people? How to
find a solution? Has raised such questions and we stand united with all the
forces we are fighting for today. Besides, we are not standing here for our own
ambitions or anything else. We hope that Sirimavo Bandaranaike will try to get rid
of this Indo-Sri Lanka Accord, the Indian Army. ”
He was adamant that the solution to Sri
Lanka's ethnic conflict was beyond the interests of Indian supremacy and that
it should reflect the interests of the Sri Lankan people. I have heard my
comrades and his wife say that he addressed the gathering amidst the LTTE threat and the atrocities of the
Indian Army and went into hiding.
Then he
fell seriously ill and was discharged from the hospital. At a meeting on
Stanley Street on 1st May 1989, he said, “If the Premadasa government has come to
negotiate with the LTTE, then it can understand that what we have
already said is true. We accept negotiation. At the same time, it can not be a
bouquet. It must truly pave the way for the establishment and preservation of
unity where both races can live in freedom and sovereignty in our country.
Before that, Weli Oya should abandon the formation of
a separate district. In addition, the Communist Party of Sri Lanka (Left) is
urging the suspension of the referendum in the Eastern Province and why it
should be abandoned altogether. Only then will it give confidence to the
institutions and the people who can go to the negotiations. A situation can
also arise where mutual concessions can be negotiated. Apart from this,
resolutions, decisions and weapons that can be made at the will of the
Government of Sri Lanka, the Government of India or unilateral decisions cannot
establish peace in our country. This is our position. We have opposed India's
intervention from the beginning. The people of Sri Lanka have to make some
concessions because of the agreement made by the Sri Lankan government. That
concession was a tripartite negotiation that annexed India as well. The
Government of Sri Lanka, the Government of India and the other Liberation
Organizations should co-operate in these negotiations for a concerted and
successful effort. Leaving it and doing strangulation work on each other would
pose a great danger to our country and people. You already know our position on
India. I have to say a few things back though. From the beginning, the
Communist Party of Sri Lanka, led by the likes of Peter
Keuneman and Wickremesinghe, and later after the split, our
party has been warning of "foreign intervention". Political parties
and liberation movements in Sri Lanka have failed to heed this. India began its
expansion by taking advantage of the 1983 ethnic riots. The Sri Lankan
government acted in support of it. The deal was struck. It's confusing in many
ways. In some respects, there are certain aspects that can help the liberation
and future of the Tamil people. But most of the issues in the agreement affect
not only the Tamil people but all Sri Lankans. This must be resisted or
modified.
India began its expansion by taking
advantage of the 1983 ethnic riots. The Sri Lankan government acted in support
of it. It was against this background that the agreement was formed. It was
seen as a confusing one in many ways. In some respects, there are features that
can help the liberation and future of the Tamil people. But most of the issues
in the agreement affect not only the Tamil people but all Sri Lankans. Therefore,
KAS is adamant that such disadvantages should be resisted or reversed.
Although
the Left had opposed India's intervention from the outset, the Sri Lankan
people had to make some concessions because of the Agreement made by the Sri Lankan
government. After insisting that the compromise and the tripartite talks could
be the solution, Comrade KAS resumed his absconding life and bid farewell while
in Kandy.
He had
such an involvement not only in politics but also in literature. He was also
responsible for the series release of Motherland (Tāyakam) Magazine. I have
also heard Mrs. Valliammai
Subramaniam and
Mrs. Raveendran (daughter) say that he
continued to write editorials for the magazines of the Motherland (Tāyakam) until he died. If
so, it would be a matter of time before they would be compiled and published to
commemorate his 25th birthday.
He has also created the Art Literary
Cultural Council, the National Arts and Literary Association, and
has carried out a number of community-based activities. Through this
organization, many people have spread their knowledge of the community and many
new generations have entered the literature. Many have reported that they
enjoyed reading liberation literature and then became a guide for others to
learn it. Apart from politicians, he has maintained friendly relations with art
and literature. Relationships with Prof. S. Thillainathan, Mauna Guru, B.C.
Mani, K.Ganesh,
etc. are exemplified. Records of this- R. Murugaiyan, K.Ganesh, S. Sivasegaram,
A. Shanmugadas, Mrs. Sarvamangalam Kailasapathy,
C. Patgunam and A. J. Kanagaratna.
As such, K.A. Subramaniam has often said that
literature is the lifeblood of a country's political development. He regretted
the non-publication of Tamil texts by China's Foreign Language Publishing from
1976 and expressed interest in republishing them. Apparently, he attended an
exhibition of books in Colombo two weeks before his death and urged the Chinese
delegation to re-publish Chinese books in Tamil. (K.Ganesh)
R. Murugaiyan has recorded that KAS was
responsible for the publication of the books of S. Sivasegaram, R. Murugaiyan, N. Raveendran, K. Thanikasalam etc. through the National Arts and Literary Association during
his lifetime. It is safe to say that his loss of literary honesty and
efficiency had a profound effect on the literary field as well.
Born in Jaffna, he was able to
transcend the land of his birth and influence far and wide through his
knowledge, energy and activities. His political philosophy and practice took
root in the hills. Through N. Raveendran he had formed a Marxist
political faction in the hills. The following paragraph should be noted in the
message issued by the Upcountry Committee of the Democratic Youth Front of Sri
Lanka on his death:
"When the Youth Movement held their
conference in Talawakelle in 1980, he attended and
delivered the keynote address. Comrade KAS was the one who went to all the
parts of the upcountry where the youth movement held preparatory meetings for
the conference and made contact with the plantation workers. Comrade KAS was
the one who pointed out the problems and guided the youth movement to solve
many problems by giving proper advice when the youth movement presented its
basic livelihood rights.
In this way, it
can be observed that Mr. E.
Thambiah, Johnson, V. Vijayaratnam and many others who later entered
politics in the hills were influenced by him. In addition, the task of
overcoming the political union conflicts in the upcountry and uniting the
people in a mass political direction was built.
Comrade Peter Keuneman, Comrade Sarath Muttetuwegama, Comrade Dharmadasa and
Comrade KAS, who was the Secretary of the Northern Youth Association, also
addressed the procession for the Badulla Conference held in early 1964.
(Information - Mrs. Valliammai Subramaniam)
There is no doubt that
KAS has a high place in the development of the left movement in Sri Lanka.
However, there are very few memoirs, reviews and studies about him. Everything
in his writing should be threaded. Quests and studies about him should abound.
Only then will the importance of Comrade KAS become widely perceived.
From the
book Works and Activists (in print) ......... Our Mountain 2013
A8. Commemorate the 25th
anniversary of Comrade KAS and 25 Lessons Learned From Him - S. Thevaraja
Contemporaneity is governed by
class division. The physical and brain workers, the workers, make up about
95 percent of the majority, and the capitalists, who prioritize capital, make
up the vast minority of less than five percent.
The world's largest minority
capitalists have adapted themselves to be the ruling elite of this vast
earth. Their capital rules across the borders of all nations.
Do the dominant funds, through
the maneuvering divisive maneuvers of these big bosses, feed the differences of
caste, race, language, religion, region, gender and color into the antagonisms
of the working class of the world and refute the idea of a 'people's society' through
the media? We are all experiencing the contemporary conspiracy of international
imperialism.
The working majority, on the
other hand, is forced to immerse itself in narrow identities as a victim of the
machinations of imperialism that has globalized capital beyond its worker
identity.
Within these narrow
identities, the 'big boss' class has prioritized itself over subjugation of
leadership. As a result of this plunder, the working-class community,
which has a monopoly majority, has temporarily lost its universal identity and
has been plunged further into massive oppression into caste, race, religion,
region, gender and color.
The meaning of 'production'
and 'labor' has been blurred in a society of people caught up in the vortex of
consumption culture, to the point of obliteration of the term worker.
While the possibility of
global workers uniting in this unequal world is near, in reality, reports of a
number of international efforts to cross the narrow mark of a fiery furnace
give us hope.
That is why on the 25th
anniversary of Comrade KAS we have the need and the compulsion to reclaim the
lessons we have learned from him.
●
First, we must boldly declare
who we are as members of the working class.
●
Second, the working class must
identify itself in the form in which oppressed people (caste, race, etc.) are
subjected to oppression and develop a program that will enrich its ability to
fight universally and truly from the perspective of time, nation and the press.
●
Third, the working class or
parties must defend themselves against falling prey to the hypocritical agenda
of the imperialist-capitalist-landlord alliance.
●
Fourth, it must acquire the
personality to function as a 'movement', not 'being' a working class party
among the masses.
●
Fifth, every Marxist and
communist must have the capacity to work with a broad heart, like the great
ocean that any great ship can reach, by engaging in work among the masses
beyond monotheism, lockout, opportunism, liberalism and strainism.
●
Sixth, the party must be an
influential party operating in everyday life to see hope and success among the
people who are reeling under despair, failure and hopelessness.
●
Seventh, those within the
Communist Party must not only be reduced to communists, but must also have the
courage to identify the communists living in and out of other parties and on
various platforms, knowingly and unknowingly, and to strengthen the
establishment of the Marxist-Leninist establishment and expand its work.
●
Eighth, the party must be
activated with vigor by continuing to engage in critique-self-criticism, unity
and struggle within the party establishment. Daily movement should take
shape. Everything must be started and conducted from the keen interest for
the unity of the party and should not lead to divisions.
Photo 80: With Comrade S. Thevaraja during their trip from Kandy to Colombo in 1989
●
Ninth, within the party, there
is no sectarian attitude, no ambiguity, no preconceived notions, no
conclusions, no preconceived notions, with an open mind and democratic
centralism beyond the allegiance of the land grant leadership, manipulate
material conditions, find out the facts, and conduct discussions without anger,
likes, dislikes, successes and failures, everyone should have the ability to
maintain a friendly relationship that is peaceful and relaxed with complete
freedom.
●
Tenth, we must identify the
crises, tragedies, discrimination and neglect that befall the people, stand
with the people immediately, inspire and mobilize the people for proper action,
strengthen them, identify and create combat environments where they can be
liberated, protected and overcome.
●
Eleventh, the party must not
be weakened as a “tent of the poor” but must be strengthened by the use of
bourgeois democratic laws and regulations in the context in which the party
operates, by building the party's resources, infrastructure and machinery.
●
Twelfth, party politics must
not only be satisfied with the party's slogans and the party's annual events,
but must also have the power to create and carry out daily revolutionary
activities among the people, like fish living in the sea on many platforms and
on all fronts.
●
Thirteenth, every communist
must be prepared to act boldly as the 'absolute materialist fearless', and to
be able to sell party newspapers and mass media magazines to the general
public, to ask for money, to listen to their grievances, and to communicate
with writers and the party about them.
●
Fourteenth, the unity of word
and deed is the focal point of a communist.
●
Fifteenth, the communists must
shine as new casts, subjecting themselves to self-criticism so that
land-capitalist thoughts and actions do not occupy us on a daily basis.
●
Sixteenth, the Communists must
have the courage to think and act with a revolutionary attitude, not to allow
surrender through concessions, awards, titles and positions so that no one can
fall victim to class compromise.
●
Seventeenth, the communist
must have the ability to lead the people in front of the people without pulling
the tail behind the people.
●
Eighteenth, the communist must
exercise restraint in not confining himself to the land-capitalist ideology of
himself, his family, his child, his relatives, his descendants.
●
Nineteenth, we must transcend
beyond the ego of 'I' or 'mine' and possess the common denominator of "one
for all, all for one."
●
Twenty, it is the behavior of
communists to avoid things like duplicating and insulting others, to respect
everyone, to understand their own character and to relate to them accordingly.
●
Twenty-first, party employees
must understand whoever has the potential and use it for the benefit of the
party and the public.
●
Twenty-second, it is the
responsibility of a communist to observe that every intellectual working in the
party is surrounded by seven workers and that his ideas emerge from the daily
practical movement and are not merely bookish. That is, practicallity is
the text stone of a communist.
●
Twenty-third, we must embrace
the professional energy microcosm in various fields and focus on their potential
and work tirelessly to eliminate differences between them and develop skills
that work in unison for the benefit of the institution.
●
Twenty-fourth, even if it is
useful, if any activity disturbs the unity of the institution, it should not be
allowed to rush into attempts to impose it, and comrades with alternative views
should not hesitate to act patiently, quietly, and leisurely, until they have
obtained the mood to accept it on their own.
●
Twenty-fifth, any hard work,
sacrifice and dedication should be for his own pleasure and should not be done
under the compulsion or wage of anyone. If any decision of the
establishment is decided by a majority, he should not deviate from his
responsibility in implementing it even if he disagrees with that decision.
- S.Thevaraja - 2014
________________________________________
Some
Speeches, Statements and Works of K.A. Subramaniam
________________________________________
B1. STATEMENT OF CHINA &
CEYLON YOUTH GROUPS via Peking NCNA International Service in English 1632 GMT 14 November 1963
A joint statement by the All-China
Youth Federation and the Ceylonese
Federation of Communist and Progressive Youth Leagues was made public here
today. It declares that both sides have reached agreement on further
consolidating and developing the relations of friendship, unity, and
cooperation between the two organizations, on the present international
situation, and on major questions of the present world movement. The document,
ratified recently by the two federations, was signed by Chieng Li-jen, vice
president of the All-China
Youth Federation; D.B. Alwis, member of the
Secretariat of the Central Committee of the Ceylon Federation of Communist and
Progressive Youth Leagues; and K.A.
Subramaniam, member of the Central
Committee of the federation. The two Ceylonese youth leaders paid a friendly
visit to China from 18 June to 20 July at the invitation of the All-China
Youth Federation.
Photo 81: On the occasion of signing the statement
by the two federations, by Chieng Li-jen, vice president of the All-China
Youth Federation; D.B.
Alwis and K.A.
Subramaniam,
members of the Central Committee of the Ceylon Federation of Communist and
Progressive Youth Leagues in 1963
The statement says that both
sides unanimously agree that the present international situation is favorable
to the national independence struggles of the people and youth of the Asian,
African, and Latin American countries: "The national democratic movement
has become a great irresistible historical current of our tie, battering the
foundations of the rule of imperialism and old and new colonialism, and making
great contributions to the defense of World peace and the promotion of the
cause of human progress. The youth and students of the countries in Asia,
Africa, and Latin America constitute a very active force in fighting
imperialism and safeguarding World peace."
The statement continues:
"Both sides unanimously agree that imperialism and old and new colonialism
will never allow Asia, Africa, and Latin America to act on their own accord.
The aggressive nature of imperialism will not change. The more it approaches its
doom, the more it will engage in frenzied struggles. The Kennedy administration of the United States is pursuing a policy
even more adventurous and more cunning than before, and is vigorously pushing
ahead with its counterrevolutionary global strategy. It is engaged in frenzied
arms expansion and war preparations, carrying out activities of aggression and
war everywhere, trying in a thousand and one ways to undermine and break up the
socialist camp, and doing its utmost to suppress the national liberation
movements in Asia, Africa and Latin America. All that U.S. imperialism has done
shows ever more clearly that it is the international gendarme suppressing the
Just struggle of the people of various countries, the mainstay of modern
colonialism, the chief force of aggression and war, the archenemy of World
peace, and the common enemy of the people and youth throughout the world."
The statement says: "It
is now more than ever necessary that the people and youth of all countries
should maintain sharp vigilance and cherish no illusions about imperialism, and
that they should further expose imperialism and oppose prettifying imperialism
and echoing its tones. It is now more than ever necessary for the people of all
countries, including the youth, to strengthen their unity, form the broadest
united front and Wage a tit-for-tat struggle against their common enemy."
"Both sides express the firm belief," the statement says, "that
in Our times, when the forces of socialism have surpassed those of imperialism
and the forces of peace have surpassed those of war, it is possible to
safeguard world peace and prevent a new world war and a nuclear war by relying
on the unity and joint struggle of the masses of the people of all countries .
. . . "The youth of both countries resolutely support the struggles of the
youth of various countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America, considering this
their lofty international duty. Both sides express their desire to join their
efforts in every possible way to strengthen unity among the youth of Asian and
African countries." The All-China
Youth Federation firmly supports the
Ceylonese people and youth in their struggle against imperialism, for the
elimination of the remnants of colonialism, for the safeguarding of national
independence, and in defence of the vital rights of youth and social progress;
it wholeheartedly supports the legitimate and just stand of the Ceylonese
people and youth in safeguarding independence and sovereignty, defending their
national interests, and opposing U.S. intervention in Ceylon's internal affairs
by way of suspending U.S. "aid." The federation holds that the just
struggle of the Ceylonese youth has made an important Contribution to the
defense of peace in Asia and the world.
The Ceylon Federation of
Communist and Progressive Youth Leagues warmly praises the Chinese people and
youth for the great successes they have achieved in socialist construction
under the leadership of the CCP and Chairman Mao Zedong by holding high the three Red banners of the general line
for socialist construction, the big leap forward, and the people's commune. The
statement says: "The Ceylon Federation of Communist and Progressive Youth
Leagues reaffirms that the CPR is the initiator of the Five Principles of
Peaceful Coexistence, that it has always adhered to the Five Principles of Peaceful
coexistence and the Bandung spirit, pursued a policy of friendship toward its
neighbors, and made great contributions to peace in Asia and the world. The
Ceylon Federation of Communist and Progressive Youth Leagues strongly condemns
U.S. imperialism for its obstinate occupation of China's inalienable territory
of Taiwan and expresses firm support for the Chinese people in their struggle
for the liberation of their own territory of Taiwan.
The Ceylon Federation of
Communist and Progressive Youth Leagues firmly supports China's consistent
stand for peaceful settlement of the Sino -Indian boundary question through negotiation ; warmly praises the Chinese
side for the unprecedented measures taken on its initiative to cease fire ,
withdraw its own frontier guards , and release all the captured Indian military
personnel ; holds that these measures fully demonstrate the sincerity on the
part of China in seeking a peaceful settlement of the Sino - Indian boundary
question ; expresses regret over the fact that India has not taken responsive
measures , and hopes that both the Chinese and Indian sides soon will enter
into direct negotiations for a peaceful settlement of the Sino- Indian boundary question .
Both sides hold that they
should hereafter continue to develop the existing friendly relations between
the Ceylon Federation of Communist and Progressive Youth Leagues and the All - China
Youth Federation through mutual support,
through the exchange of delegations , exchanges of views on questions.
Reference page 260 : BBB 9 CHICOM
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS dated 15 November 1963
B2. An incident in China
...... K.A. Subramaniam 1963 (Secretary Communist and Progressive Youth Association
Jaffna Division)
The "Worker" ("தொழிலாளி”) news paper emerges as a special edition on the day of the Chinese
Revolution. I was asked to have an article on it. How many things I have seen,
known and gained experiences in China. Not everything can be summarized in this
article. I have decided to continue writing about my experiences as much as
possible. I am writing only one incident in this article.
Photo 82:
Comrade KAS in China in 1963
The talk of China has reached its climax in the world today. The press and
radio have been actively propagating that the Chinese government, unable to
cope with the growing population, is descending into war of attrition and
diverting public opinion. Our neighbor India in particular has been busy with
this campaign. I visited China in mid-June at a time when the planned campaign
(Communes) in China was being driven by industrial production — growing
population — and poverty-starvation-starvation-death-dictatorship.
I stayed there for six weeks
and got to know first-hand the working-class cities, the farms, the educational
institutions, the cultural forums, the living conditions of the workers and the
countryside, and so on. Foreign delegations visiting China at the same time
were able to gain many more facts and experiences about China through
discussions with journalists and embassy officials.
The false propaganda of the
enemy about China was so fast that even China did not make much progress - in
the 59's, 60's and 61's there were natural disasters and great damage to crops.
How can China stand alone and move forward? With that in mind, I began my
journey by underestimating China's tremendous progress. But what I saw and knew
there was completely different. China is making great strides' This view was
shared by the delegations present. Some of them were second-time visitors and
acquaintances who had visited the West and witnessed the conditions there. We
had the opportunity to talk to some of them and exchange our experiences.
Photo 83:
Comrade KAS in China in 1963
Is there a poverty shortage among the Chinese people? How do you know that?
These are the questions that arose in front of me as I was leaving. Having
thought that I should come to a conclusion and go to the villages and labor
houses as much as possible. Are there family fights going on around their
homes? I thought I should notice that. My prediction is that if the husband and
wife fight loudly even though we do not understand the language, it could be
for deficiencies. I told this to Comrade Alwis who had come with me.
From the day we left China until the day we returned we went to as many rural
houses and working houses as possible. Sometimes when we are going somewhere
else we suddenly stop the car and go to those houses where we talk-inquire with
them. Let’s ask how many people are in the house. Let them ask the types of
food. Take care of the clothes — live the happiest lives anywhere. Communes are proud to have just saved themselves. Men's Communes have been looking for success in their lives. Vegetables
like eggplant, and tomatoes sell for half a pound a pound. Fruits Fish Egg Meat
can be bought in sufficient quantities and it is also available at low
prices.
Communes do not produce only vegetables, grains and fruits. They are
also doing road construction, city building, irrigation and small scale
industries that support agriculture. Facilities such as sports stadiums,
hospitals, health centers, schools and art and culture forums have been set up
in the Communes. Commune farmers also elect their representatives to oversee the
administration. In plain language it can be said that in China every commune is
located in every village government. In 1962-63 the country witnessed a massive
increase in production and livestock farms also flourished. Now the Chinese are
focusing on cotton production and the use of modern equipment in
agriculture.
During the crisis in China in 1959, 1960 and 1961, the Chinese people did not ask
for any help from abroad. They succeeded by the power of their labor and the
proper guidance of the Chinese Communist Party. To mark the expansion of the
industry, the 5 year plan for 1958-63 was completed in three years. I did not
see any sign of family strife or any sign of it except that I was able to learn
these things directly from the rural people and the workers.
Last day we flew from Beijing to Guangzhou to return home . Had to travel a little further by train.
Coming from East Canton Railway Station and getting off at one station, Comrade
Alwis and I walked for a while to board the next train as the three Chinese
comrades narrated and laughed. A Chinese man sweating on the platform is
carrying a heavy load on both sides on a stick. A man goes to him and tells him
something . He takes something out of his pocket. Abba! The man stood like a
bondman . He rolled the coin and threw it . He said something with a loud noise
. Immediately he left the load and went to beat the man. I was stunned.
Incident that should not happen. There was an incident where I tried and
disappeared all these days I stayed in China. My mind wanders. See! What! Are
there still problems in China! Hmmm! Se! The only thought. My mind seeks
comfort. China is a country of 65 crore people. Can everything be solved within
14 years? My mind seeks to comfort me whenever I need more time. The mind does
not listen. The mind is the only struggle. I told Comrade Alwis, "Comrade
have you seen the fight, the situation is not right yet." I looked
up and saw that it was Hong Kong!. Hong Kong is a territory under British rule.
Thanks to ("தொழிலாளி-THOLILALY”) "Worker"
1963.Oct.01 -This is an automated file created by Google Tamil Voice Typewriter
. Ms. Bharathpriya Dhatsinamoorthy and translated by Google translator script
on 14-07-2020
B3. Colonial system is
collapsing: The revisionists are opposing the liberation wars. Written by
K.A. Subramaniam in 1964
From ("தொழிலாளி-THOLILALY”) Worker 1964.05.09
The revolutions that erupted in
the colonial and semi-colonial countries after the First World War suffered
great losses due to the oppression of the imperialists and their
henchmen. But they could not extinguish the flames of the war of national
liberation after World War II.
So the colonial system began to
crumble to the foundations of the system. To date, more than 50 Asian,
African, and Latin American nations with a population of 170 million have been
freed from colonial slavery. Among them China, North-Vietnam, North-Korea
and Cuba followed the path of socialism.
In other countries, the national
liberation revolution is beginning to spin like a hurricane. So the
imperialist colonialists began to change their tactics and intrigues. They
pretended to be good to the colonial powers, made a number of reforms and
sought to preserve their interests.
Modern colonial system
However, their nature has not
changed. To continue their exploitation, they abandoned the old colonial
policy and adopted the new colonial policy. They left their direct rule
and exploited the colonial powers by handing them over to the bourgeois classes
who did not compromise their interests.
For example, they handed over to the representative of the big bosses
and landlords, India to Jawaharlal Nehru, and Sri Lanka to the United National
Party (UNP). In a few other places they
gave nominal freedom and established their puppet regimes. They enslaved
other liberated countries, especially in military alliances with SEATO, CENTO, NATO, ANZUS, etc. They set up military
bases in those countries and sabotaged their independence.
Photo 84: The
original copy from ("தொழிலாளி-THOLILALY”) Worker 1964.05.09
They are trying to unite a few
countries into a federation and keep them under their control. The best
examples of this are the British colonial work of Malaysia and the Southern
Arabin League. They are exploiting the
wealth of those countries by giving them 'aid' with political and economic
conditions.
They are still using the UN as a
tool to interfere in the internal affairs of many countries and carry out
military, economic and cultural occupations there.
Without saying much about these,
one can only speculate somewhat on its universality if one hears what the Havana
Declaration says about the new colony.
"Latin America is trapped under imperialism far more powerful than
the Spanish
colonial empire. After World War II, United
States (USA) investment crossed the $ 1 billion mark. Money for the USA is
running rampant. $ 4000 per minute, 50 lakh per day, 200 crore per year,
1000 crore per 5 years, for every 1000 dollars that leave us, a corpse is
left. $ 1000 per corpse. This is the gift that imperialism gives us
is $ 1000 per corpse, 4 corpses per minute. "
American imperialism
This is the essence of the new
colony. Its main masterpiece is American imperialism. The Moscow
statement said, "Today the United States is the main source of colonial
power. The US-led imperialists are constantly making frantic attempts to
exploit the old colonial people in new ways and in new forms. The monopoly
bosses are trying to maintain their influence over the economies and politics
of Asian, African and Latin American countries. ” Therefore, the
anti-colonial struggle is an anti-imperialist struggle. There has always
been a great difference between Marxist-Leninists and modern revisionists in how to conduct this, whether through revolutionary
struggle or peace.
Lenin,
a Marxist,
claims that the oppressed people and classes must carry out a revolution if
they are to liberate themselves completely. Such revolutions are
inevitable. In his book, The War Plan of the Proletarian Revolution, he states
that "the history of the 20th century is one of unbridled colonial wars in
which unbridled imperialism prevails."
He goes on to say, "Denying the possibility
of a national liberation war under imperialism is not only ideologically wrong
but also historically erroneous."
Anti-colonial wars and revisionists
Not all the revisionists who
lived then and today could directly oppose the anti-colonial wars. Because they
will have to lose the support of the oppressed masses. To that end, they
literally supported the oppressed nations and peoples. But on the pretext
of opposing the war, they opposed and even opposed the just wars waged by the
oppressed people against all wars.
Kautsky,
a fanatical member of the Second
International, said that the danger posed by imperialism to
world peace was minimal. The danger from liberation efforts in the lower
countries is great.”
Today's revisionists, Khrushchev and
his entourage, follow the logic of the Second International Tripartite and
indirectly liberate the nationalist war, claiming that "even a small
territorial war can wreak havoc on world war, and that any war today could turn
out to be a non-nuclear war, a destructive nuclear war." Yet thus, Khrushchev threatens
to destroy Noah's ark, our planet.
Even during the Second International some revisionists said
that the war of national liberation would turn into an imperialist war, a war
in which many imperialists would intervene. Junius
(Rosa Luxemburg), for example, put forward this theory when she
said, "This argument that every national liberation war will be
transformed into an imperialist war is wrong." What is the response to the
fact that the Algerian National Liberation
Revolution and the Cuban Revolution (many
more) did not cause world war?
Cheat for help
Now the modern revisionists have
given some methods to solve the problem of colonization. These, too, show
blatantly their opposition to national liberation revolutions.
One of them is help. The report of the
Central Committee of the Soviet
Communist Party, presented during the 22nd
Congress, stated that 'the ill effects of colonialism
must be eliminated. They need to be helped to grow as fast as they can at
the level of economically and culturally developed countries.”
In this, the leaders of the Soviet
Communist Party, who are on the path of separatism, claim that
the liberation of the colonial people is not by their liberation struggles but
by aid, which is in fact a Marxist perspective
beyond Marxism-Leninism. During
his visit to the United States in 1959, Khrushchev said
that the funny thing was that the United States' assistance to other countries,
which were the stronghold of the colony, would help those countries to stand on
their own two feet.
He said, "Both yours and our economic
achievements will be admired by all the people of the world who have lagged
behind in their economic development for centuries, and who will be able to
stand on their own two feet and seek the help of our two superpowers"
(1959-9-17).
This is with the help of the socialist
countries, the aid of imperialism provided with political conditions. Not only
balancing, but also aiding other countries with the help of Soviet
Communist Party leaders raises suspicions that Khrushchev's
word is that the colonial powers can be liberated with the help of the
imperialists at the hands of the revisionists.
The struggle is the only way for liberation
The next treatment Khrushchev would
use to dismantle the colony was disarmament. Bernstein ,
a revisionist of the Second
International, also said that "international treaty and
disarmament can uphold equality between nations." Revisionist Kautsky also
said that "Western European countries can reduce military spending by
doing public works in China, Turkey, and South America, such as railroads, to
help develop businesses."
Photo 85: With Comrade K. Thanikasalam (editor of Thayagam magazine) during their trip to the People's Republic of China in 1979
When Lenin criticized
the disarmament of that day, he said that the main mistake of their demand for
disarmament was to slip away from the material problems of the revolution. Or a
new kind of disarming proponents of disarmament! Do you stand for revolution? ”
He asked in an article entitled 'War Plan'.
At this point, Khrushchev,
who boasted of being Lenin's
successor, immersed himself in Lenin's
views on the armed revolution. Yet he has brought back to the forefront the
reactionary view of the Second
International revisionists that the liberation of the
colonial people is possible only through disarmament.
"Disarmament means the disarmament of war
forces, the elimination of military fanaticism, the elimination of armed
interference in the internal affairs of another country, and the complete and
final abolition of all forms of colonialism," Khrushchev said.
Not only that, 'disarmament will greatly
increase the chances of assisting new countries. Allocating 8-10 percent of the
$ 12 billion annually to military spending would help eradicate hunger, disease
and illiteracy in the region within 20 years. ”
According to Khrushchev,
the people of the oppressed countries did not engage in anti-colonial and
liberation struggles, and it seemed as if the imperialists could wait until
they were merciful and agree to disarmament, but once the disarmament was over,
they would be freed and slaughtered. It is utterly strained, nothing but the
original opportunism, and yet waxing and waxing imperialism.
United Nations an Imperial Instrument
Khrushchev's
next call for the abolition of the colony is to implement it through the United
Nations. "Who else but the UN can guide the abolition of colonial
rule?" Khrushchev asks.
Photo 86: With Comrades Kanti Abeyasekere, S. K. Senthivel and Ratnayake during their
trip to the People's Republic of China in 1975
Today's UN They dominated the former 'League of
Nations' just as the imperialists had taken over the
council. In reference to this Stalin said that today the world is divided into
two camps so that they 'cannot make the alley. One is the imperialist camp and
the other is the socialist camp. Imperialism on the verge of death is holding
the last trumpet of the 'League of Nations'
and trying to save itself by siding with the thieves of other nations. This is
a futile effort. Because time and circumstance work against it and in favor of
socialism. ”
But the existence of one League of
Nations, the old Revisionist Kautsky said,
"represents a great achievement of the ambition for peace, a lever that no
other institution can provide for the preservation of peace."
He did not stop with this. 'Today the United
States is the most powerful power in the world. He said it was possible to
prevent a war within the League of Nations,
or work with it.
Today, Khrushchev also
describes the United Nations-not accommodating the People Republic
of China, home to a quarter of the world's population, as the father of
peace. Today he is also promoting that the abolition of colonization can be
accomplished with the help of the UN.
'We appeal to this high-level UN body for the
rationality and foresight of the West. We appeal to their governments and
representatives. Let us agree to the move to end colonial rule and accelerate
the natural course of history”, he told the UN.
But what has the UN really achieved? It helped
to liberate the Congo from Belgian
imperialism and turn it into a US colony.
It’s good to have a little perspective on this.
In the Congo, described as a "repository of global raw materials",
Belgium carried out spontaneous exploitation.
Meanwhile, the UK joined. It is rich in all
kinds of chemicals, metals such as gold, silver, uranium, cotton, cocoa,
coffee, rubber, etc. This has aroused great appetite in the United States.
Congo was liberated on June 30, 1960.
But in five days the United States created a
state of chaos and prompted the UN to intervene. At this point, a 1959 research
report by the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee found that Congo's
minerals were helping the U.S.'s industrial and military needs. Therefore, our
future relationships must be such as to guarantee the continued availability of
these provisions".
Khrushchev, the guardian of the colonial system.
The clown's policy killed Lumumba.
On the pretext of suppressing the Congolese
insurgency, Khrushchev also
supported the United States, which dreamed of eliminating the colony through
the UN for its own needs. At the UN General Assembly on July 13, 1960. Russia
joins UN
Security Council Voted to send troops to the Congo. Not
only that: on July 15, 1960 Khrushchev told Patrice
Lumumba by telegram that " the UN
Security Council has taken effective action”. But what happened? Lumumba was
murdered. Antoine Gizenga,
who came after him, was imprisoned. The Congo escaped from the wolf's mouth and
was captured by the tiger. This is how Khrushchev's
policy of annihilating the colony through the UN ended.
The United States, still dreaming of building a
stronghold in the Mediterranean, has provoked ethnic strife between Turkey and
Greece in tiny Cyprus. (The role of the United States in the Sri Lankan
ethnic conflict is significant.) President
Macarios has also rejected US and British
deployment of "peacekeeping forces".
The Cyprus issue was brought to the UN. Russia
has failed to abide by its decision to send UN troops to Cyprus. This is Khrushchev's
second aid to the United States. Formerly in Congo, today in Cyprus, therefore,
the United States has sent PS Gyani ,
from the American new colony of India, as UNEF Commander-in-Chief.
We must not forget that Indian forces also helped the United States in the
Congo.
Is this the abolition of colonies by the UN? Or
create new colonies for America? Today is a critical time to think about that.
Here we recall what Mario de
Andrade, the leader of the people's movement for the
liberation of Angola (MPLA), said.
"We are fighting today for those political
rights that we have failed to achieve in a peaceful way. The gift of the
Salazar regime to our demands for peace is to reject freedom and unleash
repression. This is forcing the Angolan people to take up arms”.
- Written by K.A.
Subramaniam in 1964 in Tamil ("தொழிலாளி-THOLILALY”) Worker 1964.05.09
B4 Mrs Parameswari
Shanmugathasan's letter to Mrs Valliammai Subramaniam about 1969 May Day Rally
in Jaffna
Photo 87: The
original letter of Mrs Parameswari Shanmugathasan Page 1
23/7 Schofield Place
Kollupitiya,
Colombo-3 .
2nd May 1969
My dear sister,
We were deeply saddened to learn of what happened
on May Day in Jaffna last night. Importantly,
we were immeasurably saddened to learn that our comrade KAS had been injured. If
this is the case with us, I know how hard your mind will work. what to do? The
struggle under the bourgeois regime we are in is not an easy path. We must be
ready for any hardship and sacrifice. From this time on you should be in good
spirits, comforting the bell and the children.
It should be our first job to heal the wounds of
the wrist as soon as possible. If he is a police prisoner or in a government
hospital where he is not being treated properly, or if he does not recover
quickly, you should bring a good doctor from outside and treat him well. Doing
so is permitted by law. Do not be afraid of police intimidation. They exercise
dictatorship in violation of the law. We must strive to achieve our
achievements. The best treatment for KAS
should be done as soon as possible to protect his health. We will send the
required cash assistance. Today is Liberation Day and the post office is
closed. We will send the money by telegram tomorrow.
The amount of ava we have to come there right away
and see the clock is past. But a case for the Shan tomorrow at nine o'clock in
the morning. That too was put on hold by the police on May Day. He and I are leaving for Albania tomorrow morning. Will be
back at the end of the month. So we are not in a position to come there.
Tell our wonderful comrade KAS that 'Shan' and I inquired very kindly.
Do not be discouraged. Feed the power of Mao's thinking and tell him to be brave. Our main job is to get him to full recovery as soon as
possible. If the treatment given to him
is not right, bring in good doctors from outside and do what needs to be done
without delay. There is a law that allows them to do that. Do not be afraid to
fight if you refuse to break the law.
Inform our office by telegram or telephone. S. D. Bandaranayake can also be
notified. He will be there soon. Let the children be happy without letting them
be sad. Take care. These are all for the better. Our enemies are afraid to see
our strength increase. So they are abusing repression.
What else to write? You can write as much as you
want to write. We are very sorry for the inability to see you in person. Do not
give up courage. Revolutionary greetings.
Parameswari Akka(Sister).
2nd May 1969
Photo 88: The
original letter of Mrs Parameswari Shanmugathasan Page 2
B5. The Tamil people need a new
path and leadership to liberate themselves from racial oppression .... 'Worker'
1971.01.19
By K.A. Subramaniam by the name of 'A. Chinnathambi' in "தொழிலாளி-THOLILALY”
For more than 20 years,
the Illankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi (Sri Lankan Tamil_Arasu Party )
has been claiming that the Federal system of government, known as the
Coalition, is the most appropriate for a multi-ethnic country like Sri Lanka.
The Tamil_Arasu Party
(ITAK) claimed that their ambition was to form a Federal government. In an
agreement with SWRD Bandaranaike in 1957,
they dropped the Federal slogan, agreeing to form Pradeshiya Sabhas and then
to form district councils in an agreement reached with Dudley Senanayake in 1965.
Dudley-JR's UNP opposes
formation of 'Pradeshiya Sabhas' when the
party later agreed to the district councils, it was strongly opposed by the
coalition, including Sirimavo Bandaranaike, NM Perera and Peter Keuneman. They strongly condemned not only the Federal Party but also
the federal demand and Tamils. Now they demand that they have no hatred
for the Tamil people and that the Tamil people must support and co-operate with
them to create true socialism in this country.
Arguments
about Federal System.
With the aim of somehow
gaining the support and co-operation of Tamils, these federalists,
especially Peter Keuneman, Lankaratna and V. Ponnambalam, have been
claiming that Federal is possible in socialism and that Federal will
solve the problem in socialism.
At the same time, the ITAK responds
that socialism will fall behind Federal. Arguments about Federal are now
more important than ever in speech and writing. These arguments underscore the
fact that the issue of National Question is one of the main contradictions in
this country.
For the past several years,
the ITAK has
largely led the Tamil people. The ITAK has
negotiated with the Senanayake and Bandaranaike families who have been in power
in the past and obtained some concessions.
Bargaining and anti-government
activities are carried out in the interest of their class. Despite its
leadership today in compromises and concessions for the benefit of the class,
the Tamil people still feel that they are being treated as second-class
citizens and that their rights in this country should be as complete and free
as any other.
The Tamil people have
consistently resisted their opposition, regardless of their leadership, even as
the ITAK leadership
sought to bargain and win concessions with successive governments from time to
time.
There have been many instances
in the ITAK that have
seen this reaction. The leadership of the Tamil state is now looking for
socialism, realizing that the persistent, uncompromising opposition of the
Tamil people is turning into an ongoing opposition to the ITAK itself.
Photo 89: The
First Annual Memorial Series of K.A. Subramaniam Memorial Lecture was held on 9 December 1990 : ' Recent Trends in Human
Rights' by D. W.
Abayakoon, President of Lawyers for Human Rights and Development
Samasti (Federal) and
racial oppression in capitalist countries
At present there are countries
in different parts of the world with different types of Federal system.
The bourgeois nations have experienced the failure to build governments of many
nationalities. The fall of the old Austrian and Hungarian empires tells of many
experiences. Today, socialism alone can solve the problem if countries like the
United States, Canada, and India (which they admire as following parliamentary
democratic regimes) are not taken as examples by either side (the federalists
and the Samasti), but by so-called socialist countries.
Photo 90: Comrade KAS calls on one of
the China’s head of state Ji Peng Fei during his visit to the
People's Republic of China in 1979.
In the capitalist system of
class divisions where man is exploited by man, the national ethnic problem can
never be solved by the Federal system or any other organization.
In countries with a capitalist
system, exploitation and discrimination continue. Village to village, village
to city, race to race, man to man exploitation, difference, enmity, oppression
will continue and thrive.
This is evidenced by the fact
that for many years after the emergence of the Federal system in countries
like the United States, India and Canada, there has been daily chaos, terror
killings and ethnic riots.
The Soviet Union, led by
the great Lenin-Stalin, found a solution
Worse still, racial oppression
prevailed in Tsarist Russia, shocking the world. It became a prison of nationalities.
The October Revolution, led by the great leader Lenin and his ally Stalin, completely
changed this situation and showed the world a new path, transforming the Soviet
Union into a people of all races living in brotherhood.
The world praised the Soviet
Union and its great leader, the late Stalin, for
successfully resolving the national ethnic question. President Stalin received
deep condolences from all over the world when they passed away. SJV Selvanayagam also sent
a telegram from Sri Lanka. It is noteworthy that in his telegram he also
mentioned the issue of national race.
Why the repression in the
Soviet Union?
What is the situation today?
With the exception of the Soviet Union and other countries (Czechoslovakia and
Yugoslavia that came its way (China, Albania), many years
later, the ethnic issue is once again facing crisis.
The Soviet Union, led by the great
leader Stalin, was initially
a union of several nationalities. Such a union could have been established,
stabilized and nurtured only under socialist conditions and on the basis of
equality and volition. Then, as the counter-revolutionary change brought about
by the traitor Khrushchev has been transferred back to the capitalist system,
crises have arisen among the nationalities as well as other crises. Minority nationalities
are suppressed. Conditions such as discrimination, forced immigration,
segregation, and imprisonment have become commonplace. Today's Soviet Union is
once again becoming a prison for all nationalities.
Other countries (China, Albania) claiming to
be socialist have come to the same situation. Similar conditions prevail in
these countries.
What do these countries teach
us? In the capitalist feudal system, racial oppression is similar to other
forms of oppression. The national race issue will not succeed in the capitalist
system. At the same time as teaching that the national ethnic problem can only
be solved by the socialist system or its predecessor, the People's Democratic
Organization, the danger arises again if this system is endangered and a
different bourgeois system is introduced into the socialist or populist system.
What does Marxism–Leninism - Mao Zedong thought teach?
What is the path of
socialism and people's democracy?
An armed revolution can be
waged in a country by the leadership of other non-working classes. But a
socialist revolution or a people's democratic revolution can only be sustained
by armed struggle with the support of the working class and the revolutionary
section of the peasantry and other classes. Until socialism triumphs over the
world and the emergence of communism, those countries must be defended by
proletarian dictatorship. The Marxism–Leninism - Mao Zedong ideology teaches that one should always be vigilant against
counter-revolution, as happened in the Soviet Union.
The Tamil people must unite
nationally for a democratic revolution
Countries around the world
today are based on these principles: the People's Republic of China, the
People's Republic of Albania and the
People's Republic of Korea. National ethnic issues in these countries have been
completely resolved. In China, 92% of the Han people have all the rights of a
very small minority of the other 8% of the nearly fifty nationalities. The four
nationalities have territorial autonomy and the races have rights according to
their geo-economic, ethnic and cultural structure. Thus even a small race of
only 600 people in total enjoys the rights of the Han people.
The language of very small nationalities
that do not have a written form has been facilitated to develop a written form.
If Mao Zedong, the great
leader of China, calls them the great leader of all nationalities in one voice,
that voice is the voice of freedom, equality and unity of all nationalities!
Capitalism can never solve
it
What is the situation in Sri
Lanka? No matter how much those in power chanted the slogan of socialism, there
was no revolution in Sri Lanka like the one in which they could exemplify
themselves. Moreover, imperialism did not seize feudalism by its state
apparatus, by force of arms. The dictatorship of the working class did not take
place. Without these there is no socialism. This is the conclusion of
Marxism-Leninism.
“The proletarian state cannot
take the place of the bourgeois state in the process of self-destruction. As a
general rule, it can only happen through a violent revolution. ”
The bourgeois state apparatus,
which is already defended by the colonialists and the brokerage bourgeoisie and
the feudal class, is still being ruled by other sections of the same classes,
with the support of its army, police and courts.
In this case, those who
understand the Marxism–Leninism - Mao Zedong ideology will call those who seek to find socialism in this
regime just plain innocent.
Symbols of imperial praise
and humiliation
Tamil people in this country
are fighting for their language, ethnic, economic and cultural freedom. This
struggle for absolute justice has unfortunately gone to the wrong leadership.
In today's bourgeois social system, the Tamil people are beginning to realize
that they have been subjected to many years of vain hardships and unnecessary
sacrifices in their quest for parliamentary rights through the parliamentary
path, and that instead of uniting with other ethnic minorities in their public
struggle, they have developed a level of difference and enmity.
Once upon a time, the Jaffna
Youth Congress, an organization of Tamil people and youth, raised the demand
for complete independence against British imperialism. The Tamil people
boycotted even the general election held under the Donoughmore Commission for not giving it full independence and expressed their
anti-imperialist and national oath. Their pro-imperialist activities are a
disgrace to the Tamil people of such a tradition as the leaders of the Tamil
people.
The ITAK leadership,
which claims to be fighting for language, ethnic and economic freedom, does not
support the liberation struggle of Asian, African and Latin American countries
such as Vietnam, Cambodia and Palestine, which are fighting for similar freedom
and liberation from the clutches of imperialist plunder. Imperial praise is
said by showing silence in response.
ITAK- All
Ceylon Tamil Congress Head Bank, Major
Companies. Rubber, belonging to the feudal bourgeoisie, who owned large tracts
of property and large tracts of land in tea estates; Those who are bound by
imperialism.
No matter how much they talk
about freedom, they will not go against their class, against their class state
system. That is why the Tamil people must follow a path that is completely
different from the one they have followed so far and is a path to success. The
Tamil people, like any other people, need to realize, as experienced and deeply
as possible, President Mao Zedong's statement
that "Political
power grows out of the barrel of a gun".
Democratic revolution is
the way to liberation
The workers, peasants and
other patriots of all nationalities in this country must unite and defeat the
armed struggle of the ruling class and the state apparatus — the people's war,
through a protracted struggle — to win the people's democratic revolution.
Armed struggle is the only way to win the people's war.
In this country, the working
class, among the oppressed and exploited majority Sinhalese and other Tamil and
Muslim populations, will fight for the land against the great feudal class and
foreign companies who have usurped the lands owned by thousands of rural
peasants through their tearful and bloody tragic wills. Existing plantation
workers, students suffering from colonial education - teachers, people under
the oppression of the feudal Patham Pasali (Simpleton) caste, national bosses suffering from foreign domination,
patriots opposing the imperialist plunderers who plunder billions of rupees
from this country, enslaved foreigners. The Tamil people must give national
shape to their struggle by uniting with the militants mobilizing in the Communist Party of Sri Lanka to advance towards a non-exploitative social organization
through the people's democratic revolution, overthrowing the three mountains of
the bourgeoisie and the repressive state apparatus that give the green light to
imperialism through the people's war.
This struggle covers not only
the national ethnic issue of Tamils but all other issues as well.
Imperialism that enslaves
nations and peoples; Exploitation and racial oppression as well as other forms
of oppression.
The socialist system for the
elimination of exploitation and all forms of oppression has a system of mutual
equality with every nation and people.
The era of world
revolution
While capitalism is inevitably
doomed, socialism is advancing unstoppably.
Our era today is the era of
world revolution.
Indo-Chinese countries,
Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, the heroic struggle of the Arab people and countries
for the liberation of Palestine, the struggle of the Korean people against the
preparation of the Japanese war against the homeland of South Korea, the
struggle of the people of the country against the social imperialism of
Czechoslovakia, the motherland of the Polish people. Surrounded by struggles,
US-led imperialism and Soviet-led social imperialism cannot be left in crisis
by mass uprisings in their respective countries.
The great socialist China is
the universal power in the east of the world, and in Europe as the socialist
beacon, Albania and the
international revolutionary peoples and nations are their own territories.
US-led imperialism and
Soviet-led social imperialism are being beaten more and more by international
revolutionary peoples and nations by spreading their legs wide in an attempt to
forge world partnerships with a false alliance. Its destruction and the victory
of the world revolution are inevitable.
The prophecy of
President Mao Zedong
"Beginning now, in the
next fifty to one hundred years or more, the social structure of the world will
change completely. It will be a great era, an era that will shake the earth and
the sky, an era that has never been seen before by any historical stage.
”
Written by K.A. Subramaniam with the name of 'A. Chinnathambi' in ("தொழிலாளி-THOLILALY”) "Worker 1971.01.19 Press" in PDF. "Tamil people need a new path and leadership to get
rid of ethnic oppression ...." in
PDF Original source 19 January 1971
This is an automated file
created by Google Voice Typewriter and Google Translator from the Original
source dated 19 January 1971
B6. Comrade N. Shanmugathasan
Letter to KA Subramaniam in 1973
4 August 1973
To Comrade KAS
I will rewrite the article as you suggested. Without saying anything about the Chinese
Communist Party. I think your opinion is correct.
I regret not being able to send your allowance before the 10th. I will try to give when I visit. Apologies.
Comradely
Shan.
Photo 91: The original letter of Comrade N. Shanmugathasan in Tamil written on 4 August 1973
B7. The Editorial for Art and
Literary, April 1974, 'Thayagam' (Motherland)
New Democracy!
New life!
New civilization!
Photo 92: Front
cover of the January-February 1990, 'Thayagam'
(Motherland) published
after Comrade KAS's demise.
Motherland
emerges. It's yours. Let's start the magazine first: then policy! The homeland
does not appear to be in the process of emerging headlong with a policy of its
own.
In the
field of art literature, the motherland has emerged with the need to create
works that reflect the national and international needs and to create a strong
team.
With a progressive scientific perspective, the homeland will be a weapon of
national forces that reflect and stand for historical change. It is undeniable
that any work in the field of art literature embodies a social perspective.
Works are divided into two political directions.
One is the
political direction of the forces that will create the new democracy, the
well-being of mankind, the world for a new civilization. This political
direction is being promoted by the democratic forces led by the working class.
The second
is the political direction that is the direct opposite of the previous right
political direction and that is building the old exploitative social system
that is being destroyed. It is led by the imperialist powers and the
bourgeoisie.
The first
political direction and the world is the purpose of the homeland and its
aspiration.
Decisive changes are taking place
nationally and nationally. This influence is also reflected in the field of art
literature.
In Sri
Lanka it can be divided into three phases.
● One: Anti-fascism, World War II, national liberation struggles and the national uprisings
in Sri Lanka created an art and literature awareness here.
● Two: The period 1952-56 marked another stage in the
popular uprising against foreign and foreign reactionary, foreign language,
cultural and economic occupations, and the Great Hartal struggle. Many of the creators of
this period succeeded in denouncing and exposing this social system, but also
failed to transform this social system and outline the right path for it.
●
Third: The mass movement against
foreign and domestic reactionary forces in the years following 1966, the
struggles of plantation workers in the highlands, and the mass movements and struggles against untouchability and caste
oppression in the North ushered in
another period.
These
struggles and movements united the working class, agricultural and other
working people and democratic forces of the country with its actions and their
struggles. Were to give hope and support to the movements as well.
The works
of art and literature of this period were born out of the movements and
struggles of some people. These helped to some extent to put the right path and
path ahead.
Criticisms
are born out of works. Works are further enriched by criticism. To this end,
these works need to be further critiqued. Such reviews will help many new
works. Motherland will carry out this work.
The motherland
opposes anti-people, anti-democratic and anti-national ideologies in works of
art and literature. - The country needs new creations and creators. There are a
lot of energetic artists among the people. Approaching them homeland. Bringing
new creators and their creations to the forefront.
The rise of
the homeland may cause panic among the elites and their masters who despise art
and themselves as the pawns of the reactionary class and religion.
The forces
that will create a new democracy, a new life, and a new civilization will be
glad to know that they have come to know the period of effort they expected or
took.
The
homeland is yours.
-
K.A.Subramaniam, on behalf of the editorial board 01 April
1974
B8. Debate on the leadership of
Comrade N. Shanmugathasan -
Report by Samal de Silva & K.A. Subramaniam in 1978
Photo 93: Comrade N. Shanmugathasan's family photo, preserved
carefully by KAS’s family for decades though they moved to various rental
houses in the past.
Reject N. Shanmugathasan's counter-revolutionary
leadership!
Appeal
to the members of the Communist Party of Sri Lanka !!
Dear
Comrades!
Let
us call on the sincere Communists in the Communist Party of Sri Lanka to reject N. Shanmugathasan's counter-revolutionary
religious-destructive leadership and call on the Communist Party to build a
strong Communist Party that will validate the universal truths of Marxism–Leninism - Mao Zedong ideology in line with the
concrete practice of the Sri Lankan revolution. For this purpose we call on the
party Central Committee, the Divisional Committees, and the responsible staff,
on behalf of the other members, to mobilize at the Special Congress to be
convened by Comrades Samal de Silva and K. A. Subramaniam.
The
reasons why we demand that N. Shanmugathasan's disorganized leadership reject
the counter-revolutionary leadership are as follows:
(1)
N. Shanmugathasan denounced the Third World Doctrine as a reactionary theory
put forward by President Mao as the first step in abandoning the Marxism–Leninism - Mao Zedong thought, the philosophical
guide of our party. After deciding to reject this theory, he launched a vile
campaign against the giant Chinese Communist Party and the Chinese people,
through the reactionary press and with the help of revisionists. In doing so he
offered to help the Soviet social imperialists.
(2)
In defiance of the decisions of our party's Eleventh Congress and the
principles of democratic centralism, N. Shanmugathasan, with the help of his close
associates, barred the vast majority of delegates from attending the party's
special convention, which was hastily convened with the aim of imposing his
counter-revolutionary disorder on the party. He deliberately delayed sending
the report submitted by his opponents to the various party branches. He failed
to submit a statistical report to the conference to cover up his sabotage
activities.
(3) N. Shanmugathasan's fourteen years of leadership failed
to build a powerful Communist Party that could lead the masses. His
monotheistic, disruptive, counter-revolutionary political direction was an
obstacle to building a broad united front against the common enemies of the
people and the country. He was feared to be the only revolutionary thinker, the
only leftist, the only revolutionary. His monotheistic lockout was an obstacle
to all efforts to unite the vast majority of the population against the common
enemy. He vehemently opposed the need to isolate the main enemies by defeating
the neutral forces and building a broad united front. In fact all of his
attacks aided the main enemy by targeting intermediate forces.
(4)
Instead of approaching the national-ethnic issue of the Tamil-speaking people
on the basis of Marxism–Leninism - Mao Zedong ideology, he approached
the issue in a bookish, and one-sided manner, thus hindering thousands of
Sinhalese-Tamil youths from uniting nationally in the struggle for the
democratic rights of the Tamil-speaking people and their legitimate aspirations.
By preventing the people's revolutionary, he betrayed the ideals of the anti-imperialist
approach.
(5)
He destabilized the party by putting his own interests above the interests of
the party and abusing the post of General Secretary. He does not tolerate
criticism and refuses to make honest self-criticism. N. Shanmugathasan's bourgeois position hindered the
party's progress and left the party unable to serve the people in the best
possible way.
(6)
Through his foreign travels and other means, without the knowledge of the
Central Committee of the party, he propagated his own destructive,
counter-revolutionary political direction internationally among the fraternal
communist parties in an attempt to create dissension among them. He thus
isolated our party from the mainstream of the international communist movement.
(7)
N. Shanmugathasan waving the red flag is to oppose
the red flag. While he quotes President Mao Zedong but rejects the idea of Mao Zedong. By spewing revolutionary slogans he opposes the
progressives along with the reactionaries. In essence, N. Shanmugathasan's leadership, principles and
position are counter-revolutionary. The party's special congress will take
place soon. The Preparatory Committee meeting of the Congress will announce the
date and place of the Congress.
The
Production Committee will send a copy of the National and International Status
Report and Copy Organization Report to be discussed by the Party Branches and
submitted to the Special Congress.
Long
live the Communist Party of Sri Lanka!
Victorious
Marxism–Leninism - Mao Zedong thought - Long live !
Colombo
(Signed) Samal de Silva and (Signed) K. A. Subramaniam
B9. Letter written by KA
Subramaniam in mid-December 1979 to his wife about his
visit to Kunming, Yunnan
Mani,
We stayed in Kunming, Yunnan Province, China, on the Vietnamese
border, from 1st to 6th of December 1979. As you know, the Chinese-Vietnamese
border war took place here. We visited many places. About 1/3 of the
population in this province is from 22 national minority
groups. Opportunity to learn more. The largest Stone forest in the world is situated here. Stone forest is also found
in Italy. However it is small. Thousands
of people visit Kunming daily, including foreigners. It is filled with natural
resources and a variety of gardens, as
well as buildings and paintings depicting ancient art. A wide variety of
grains and fruits including mangoes and jackfruits are here.
Photo 94: This letter written by K.
A. Subramaniam in mid-December 1979 to his wife ( Comrade KAS used to call
his wife as “Mani” ) about his visit to Kunming
Photo 95: Comrade K. A. Subramaniam in mid-December
1979 in Kunming Stone Forest
Kunming, which is the capital and largest city of Yunnan province, People's Republic of China. Also known as Yunnan-Fu,
today it is a prefecture-level city and the political, economic, communications and cultural
centre of the province as well as the seat of the provincial government. The
headquarters of many of Yunnan's large businesses are in Kunming. Its
economic importance derives from its geographical position. It is positioned
near the border with Southeastern Asian countries, serving as a transportation hub in Southwest China, linking by rail to Vietnam and by
road to Burma, Laos and Thailand. The Stone
Forest or Shilin (Chinese: 石林; pinyin: Shílín) is a notable
set of limestone formations about 500 km2 located
in Shilin Yi Autonomous County, Yunnan Province, People's Republic of China, near Shilin approximately 90 km (56 mi) from the provincial
capital Kunming.
B10. Video transcript of some
snippets from Comrade K.A. Subramaniam's video interview in Sathiamanai for Diaspora through Comrade S.
Thevakumaran (Kumar) of Italy in June 1982.
“Tamil comrades who may have left Sri Lanka
and Sinhala comrades who may be there must work together to protect the unity
and independence of the nation. They have gone there solely because of
the economic crisis and the labor issues.
Well, even if they take that position, it
will be for the benefit of the country and for the independence of the
country.
Kumar is coming and going for the second
time now. He will also have experiences in Italy. Italy is
undergoing the right changes. Economic and social developments have also
taken place. While they work there to build and defend Italy's economy,
they must also play an additional role in protecting our country's independence
and building its economy. To that end, they are mobilizing the Sri Lankan
youth there, educating them and explaining the situation in the country so that
they can serve as much as they can!”
He was accompanied by
comrades S. Thevaraja and S.K.
Senthivel in Sathiamanai in 1982 Video.
Photo 96: Comrades S. Thevaraja , E. Thambiah
and S.K. Senthivel with Sirima R. D. Bandaranaike in 1988
B11. The Editorial for Art
and Literary, April 1983, 'Thayagam' (Motherland)
New Democracy!
New life!
New civilization!
It is gratifying to see the return homeland that
emerged nine years ago in 1974.
Today's national and international conditions are vastly different from those
in which the homeland emerged.
The homeland has seen many crises and
experiences during this medieval period and is in the throes of political,
economic, socio-cultural changes.
However, the lines of grief were not on its
face. It can be seen in the facial expressions that compile, explore, correct
mistakes and advance the right ones.
Today our country is witnessing a massive
economic crisis, a poor living standard, inter-ethnic hatred, unrest among
youth and students, the gradual deprivation of the democratic trade union
rights that working people fought for, cultural disruption and foreign cultural
infiltration.
The deprivation of human
rights as a whole, freedom of speech, freedom of speech, and the judiciary are
all subject to neglect and intimidation, and the state is observed to be
operating under the dictatorship of the individual with state terrorism.
The motherland feels the need for all natives to
speak out against this on many fronts.
It is the duty of the homeland today to unite
and mobilize them, to unite and advance the democratic forces and movements
against the common enemy and to work for it.
That is what the motherland is determined to do
with courage.
We cannot underestimate the role of writers,
artists and literary enthusiasts in carrying out the above duties. With this in
mind we recalled the Lu Xun
and Bharathi
centuries over the years.
Centennial celebrations are not just annual
funerals. Here we recall the various scientific ideas, works of art and
literature of those who, in the face of the social, political, economic and
cultural influences of the time in which they lived, fulfilled their life
struggles in fulfilling the duties of the class on which they depended - in
accordance with their respective personalities. The history of mankind has been
evolving by compiling and enriching such experiences.
Our aim is not to dismiss only the multifaceted
aspects of the context of time in the name of the dissertation with the
literary illusion that the past of art literature is merely darkness and that
we stand alone. The blindness that can occur even in the daytime can be cured
only when one realizes how powerfully they stood up and gave voice to the
progress of mankind even in those dark times.
Photo 97:
Comrade KAS with Prof Kailasapathy .
As we recall the Bharathi
Centenary Seminar held monthly last year,
we feel that our hearts are heavy with the memory of the late Professor Kailasapathy.
We feel that the loss of a Tamil scholar, a literary man of many energies,
active and humane, who was preparing himself not only to make the seminar
useful to that extent, but also to make many new contributions, still haunts
our minds many months later. It is a pity that even his dissertation on "Bharathi
and Renaissance Theory - A Reassessment" is incomplete in the form of an
article.
He wanted to get the text of Bharathi
Studies; Encouraged researchers; He worked with us for that. With the arrival
of the ‘Motherland’ we find solace in the fulfillment of his wish to some
extent.
The homeland stretches before you. Its rise and growth rests on the strength
and contribution of the awakened patriotic forces and the wider masses.
Your homeland headache will continue to give
your tireless cooperation.
On behalf of the Motherland Editorial Board.
K.A.
Subramaniam 01 April
1983
B12. Speech of K.A. Subramaniam in 1986 May Day Rally ……
Due
to the volatile situation that existed in Jaffna, meetings, gatherings,
protests or processions were not happening. Even in that tense situation,
the Left Communist Party of Sri Lanka was able to organise a huge rising
procession. Comrade K.A. Subramaniam, did lead both the procession
and the meeting. His speech in that occasion is given below,
We
are aware that Jayewardene and his associates, voice for
truce, peace on the streets and peace in the country in the media
regularly. When democratic rights, freedom and justice to the people were
denied, definitely there would be a possibility for conflict and violence.
People were in such a situation where they have to take back their rights
compulsorily. So, Jayewardene who voice for justice and who
feel proud of restoring peace in the country, first and foremost should
sanction all democratic rights to people, particularly the rights of Tamil
people should be given in this country.
Only
in that premise where rights of the people were restored, we can bring back
peaceful situations in the country. Jayewardene had
delayed deliberately all these days to arrive at the peace agreement. If they
are ready for a political solution, we will cooperate and support that
decision. Regions where Tamil people have been living for ages and the north
eastern region of the country should be declared and recognised as their
independent statehood. On that basis regional autonomy should be given. That is
the prerequisite for achieving at least one part of their demands.
Delivered by Comrade K.A. Subramaniam. Video link of 1
May 1986
People
who gathered their in huge numbers, were enthusiastically raising slogans. Few
slogans were given are listed below.
∙ All labourers of the world mobilise
∙ Labourers are the one who are there to rule this
world
∙ Buddha preached nonviolence
∙ J.R declared
war
∙ Where is this country heading?
∙ Who are all terrorist?
∙ J.R is
terrorist
∙ Athulathmudali is terrorist
∙ Regan is
extremist
B13. Minimum Proposals
of the Central Committee of the Sri Lanka Communist Party (Left) for an Interim
Solution to the National Question
The Sri
Lanka Communist Party (Left) released
the following statement containing the minimum proposals of the Central
Committee of the party for an interim solution to the National Question. The
statement has been signed by the General Secretary of the Party, Comrade K.A.
Subramaniam on behalf of the Central Committee of the
Party.
The statement reads as follows:
The people of the entire country are undergoing
the painful effects resulting from the serious situations for which the present
government has been responsible.
The national oppression committed particularly
against the Tamil people has resulted in unbearable sufferings. The economy of
the country has deteriorated and the living standard of the people has eroded
considerably.
Defence expenditure incurred per day is
approximately Rs. 20 million. The entire burden is borne by the working class.
Several persons of the UNP have
come to realise that the National Question cannot be solved by means of
war.
The entire people including Tamils desire a
peaceful life. They eagerly await an interim political solution. No one expects
that such an interim political solution will be lasting solution to National
Question. But failure to pay attention to a short-term solution as well as a
long term solution may lead to more serious problems. To perceive
Sri Lankaʹs National question merely as a racial problem between Tamils
and Sinhalese will lead to a dangerous situation.
National oppression by the present chauvinistic
government leads to international threats to the countryʹs independence through
direct and indirect intervention by neighbouring countries. The UNP since
1977 has been trying to barter our independence to American imperialism.
The intention of the UNP government
to lease facilities of the Trincomalee harbour
to America was thwarted by Indian intervention. Systematic and planned communal
violence and pogroms in July 1983 against the Tamil people by the present
government has resulted in direct Indian intervention in Sri Lankaʹs internal
affairs.
The attempt of the Indian government to find a
political solution to the National Question acceptable to both parties is
appreciated. However, the Indian government should not impose a solution to
meet its regional political interests.
The targets of liberation struggle should not be
to worsen the countryʹs National Question. It will lead to the loss of
sovereignty and independence of our country. The threat to Sri Lankaʹs
independence and sovereignty is increasing, and it is being felt by all
sections of the people.
That is why all sections of the people are
pressing the government for an urgent political solution to the problem without
worsening the crisis. All forces fighting for the emancipation of Tamils should
take into account that an interim political solution through negotiations will
thwart the emergence of a military dictatorship, put an end to genocidal
military violence against the Tamils and also give a chance and time to build
up a mass organisation by democratic forces and Tamil liberation forces against
the UNP’s
right‐wing
parliamentary dictatorship.
The SLCP(Left) has
acknowledged and stressed that the Tamils have a traditional homeland and that
they constitute a distinct nationality. Our party recognizes the
traditional homeland of the Tamils by rejecting the government sponsored
planned Sinhala colonisation.
The Party Central Committee stresses that an
interim political solution should incorporate the following proposals with a
clear guarantee:
1 . The traditional homeland of the Tamils — the
Northern and Eastern Provinces — should be granted regional autonomous status
and autonomous bodies be set up.
2. These autonomous bodies should have the right
to merge and if necessary, function separately if they so decide.
3. The regional autonomous bodies should have
maximum independence to manage the affairs of economy, employment, internal
security, education, culture, health, social services etc. without the
intervention of the Central Government
4. The Muslims, the people of Indian Origin and
Sinhalese who reside within these areas should be given the right to establish
inner autonomous bodies and thereby ensure their basic human rights, and
language and cultural rights.
5. The autonomous bodies should, in the absence
of external aggression, be responsible for the security of the autonomous
areas.
6. The autonomous bodies should have
the freedom to set up colonisation schemes within the area. At the same time,
the autonomous bodies should have the right to accept or reject any
colonisation scheme of the Central Government within their area.
7. Concrete steps should be taken to eradicate
discrimination based on nationality, language or caste at the national and
regional levels.
8. Basic rights of plantation workers, Tamils
and Muslims who reside outside North and East should be recognised by setting
up inner autonomous bodies.
9. There should be a guarantee to hold elections
at the national and regional level without the intervention of the government,
armed forces and others.
10. Depressed communities and backward sections
of the society should be given institutional guarantee by way of concessions
and facilities in the fields of economy, employment and education for their
social uplift. While stressing the above proposals as basis for arriving at an
interim political solution, our party emphasizes the necessity of taking steps
to solve the problems that arose in recent years owing to the warlike
situation.
To ease the present turmoil in the country, our
party emphasises that the following steps should be taken without any further
delay:
1. The Prevention
of Terrorism Act be withdrawn, the state of emergency be
lifted and all persons detained under the act and regulations be released
unconditionally.
2. Those persons who are wanted under Prevention
of Terrorism Act and Emergency Regulations be pardoned
unconditionally. Charges against them and those who were arrested prior to the
enactment of the Act or its promulgation be withdrawn completely.
3: The freedom of expression of the Tamils be
respected by withdrawing the Sixth Amendment to the Constitution.
4. Government troops be withdrawn from populated
Tamil areas and the camps be closed based on a time table.
5. Home guards be disbanded and
disarmed, and that establishment be scrapped.
6. Government should give compensation to those
affected for losses caused by the troops and home guards by way of murder,
arson, and burglary.
7. The government should give facilities to
people who were forced to leave their homes and villages by the excesses
committed by the government troops and home guards, and those displaced be
allowed to return to their homes and restart their vocations peacefully.
8. Government troops and home guards who
committed excesses be tried before an impartial commission of inquiry.
The above actions are minimum expectations of
the Tamils for the security of their lives and property. If the government
tries to keep its troops and political thugs in the Tamil areas, the interim
solution will not be genuinely implemented.
The SLCP(Left) calls
upon mass organisations, personages, patriotic forces, democrats and others to
firmly press the government to take steps on these lives.
Our party is very clear that this interim
solution will not be a lasting solution to the problems within the present
social set up, and until the advent of power of the working class through a
mass revolution there cannot be a lasting solution to the National Question.
However, our Partyʹs stand is that the solution we suggest will to an extent
ensure that there will not be repetition of the present situation in the near
future and bring about sanity for the present.
21‐December‐1986
General Secretary Central Committee, Sri
Lanka Communist Party (Left)
15/1, Power House Road, Jaffna. Sri Lanka.
B14. Life is a struggle..... Wedding wishes!! (By K.A. Subramaniam on 7 February 1987)
"The wedding ceremony of Thevakumaran
and Vallinayaki takes place here.
In their lives, it means they are starting
the second phase. Life is a struggle.
The first phase of their lives, the school
education - the struggle against social oppression, the struggle against
poverty, the two have passed separately.
Today they come forward to focus and
advance their lives today in a position of life partner.
It is now time for them to support each
other, depend on each other and carry on their life struggle, at the same time
looking at the situation in the world as a whole, the nations and nations of
the world are fighting for the preservation of independence, for the liberation
of nations and for the people's revolution.
May your struggle be combined with their
struggle and your role in the great struggle for world peace and human
well-being! On this auspicious day, I wish the bride and groom all the best and
live a great life !!"
K.A. Subramaniam on 7 February
1987 Video
Photo 98: Comrade K.A. Subramaniam with his wife just a
fortnight after their marriage in 1963
B15. Our party completely
rejects attempts by the Indian government to detain LTTE Chairman
Mr. V. Prabhakaran. (Press release on 2 August 1987)
The Central Committee of the Sri
Lanka Communist Party (Left)
is continuing its in-depth study of the "Peace
Accord" between the Governments of
India and Sri Lanka. Although the agreement has seen some progress in resolving
the plight of the Tamil people, the Central Committee believes that the
agreement between the two governments will not bring a short-term or long-term
solution to the National
Question.
This is because an interim solution
to the Tamil issue can only be reached through the participation, cooperation
and consensus of all parties involved. It should not be a one-sided
solution.
The forced threat solution should
not be imposed on them. The LTTE claims to be forced to comply with their wishes. Our party
completely rejects attempts by the Indian government to detain Mr. V.
Prabhakaran. The Governments of Sri Lanka and India should take steps to
enable Mr. Prabhakaran and the LTTE to present their views and participate freely and voluntarily in
the negotiations for a solution. At the same time, youth militant groups
and the Tamil
United Liberation Front (TULF)
and the Communist Party of Sri Lanka (Left) urges the Sri Lankan government to
find a solution through negotiations.
The above is part of their statement
issued by Mr. K.A.
Subramaniam, the General Secretary of the Sri
Lanka Communist Party (Left)
on behalf of the Central Committee. The report also warns the Sri Lankan
people that the call for an Indian peacekeeping force under the Indo-Sri
Lanka Peace Accord has undermined the country's independence, sovereignty and
integrity and posed a new threat to South Asian countries. Instead of
resolving the national ethnic issue at every turn, the Jayewardene government
is engaged in mortgaging the sovereignty of the country to every possible
foreign power. The culmination of that operation was the summoning of the
Indian Army in the guise of peacekeeping.
Our party has already expressed its
acceptance of India's role with caution that India as a regional power should
not prioritize its interests as India has interfered in our national ethnic
issue in many ways and it is our closest neighbor.
Our party has submitted proposals
for an interim solution to the national ethnic problem and stressed the need
for a political solution. That is the will of all people, including
Tamils. All militant youth organizations, the TULF and a conciliatory political solution can only be reached through
protracted discussions between governments. It will correct the interim
solution. Our party believes that this is the only way to achieve honest
peace.
General Secretary, Sri
Lanka Communist Party (Left)
15/1, Power Station Road, Jaffna
1987.08.02
B16. The Last Editorial for Art
and Literary., August 1989.
Freedom! New Democracy!
Prosperous life!
Magazine 20 August
1989 - September
New democracy
New culture
Let's fight for a
new life!
Motherland is
overjoyed at the unveiling of the twentieth issue. The magazine expands with
the pride of having published twenty magazines despite unlimited restrictions.
Not only are
direct barriers to literary prosperity extinguished; Some of the limitations
set by the people themselves can be a hindrance. Contemporary socio-economic
and political activities are set to limit people within such limits.
The obligation to
pave the way for the extermination of such beasts, which are locked up by
external forces and by the people themselves, has the power to benefit the
people. Literary - Art literary movements, can not deviate from this obligation.
The motherland has
continued to fulfill this historic task of its own. From the outset, the
homeland emphasized the need for a broad united front to defend the nation's
independence, sovereignty and to build a new democratic culture. In its twentieth
track, Motherland emphasizes the need for united action for any crisis facing
the people.
In general, the
relatively dominant social outlook among Sri Lankan Tamil writers, despite
having different worldviews, has been arguably a good feature; In more than
half a dozen Sri Lankan Tamil magazines published today, we find works
depicting contemporary life. At the same time, it is necessary to emphasize the
broad unity of all, based on the interests of the people. Although not
explicitly emphasized so far, not all of them have ever commented against this
principle.
Sri Lankan Tamil
magazines are united on another point. Nothing was released in due course. Motherland
Twentieth Magazine should have arrived at least three months ago. No need to
explain because everyone knows the reason for the delay.
The Motherland
still promotes the bi-monthly issue of a magazine. Continuing obstacles must
lead. The motherland will continue its work for our own cultural development
despite any difficulties.
Let us fight
together for a new democracy, a new culture, a new life!
K.A. Subramaniam on behalf of the Motherland Editorial
Board. 21-Aug-1989
Photo 99: Comrade K.A. Subramaniam with Comrade K. Thanikasalam (editor of Thayagam magazine) during their trip to the People's Republic of China in 1979
B17. The last speech of K.A. Subramaniam, after he came out of the hospital in a critical condition on
Jaffna / Stanley Road on 01 May 1989
“If the Premadasa government has come to negotiate with
the LTTE, then it can understand that what we have already
said is true. We accept negotiation. At the same time, it cannot be a bouquet.
It must truly pave the way for the establishment and preservation of unity
where both races can live in freedom and sovereignty in our country. Before
that, Weli Oya should abandon the formation of a separate district. In addition,
the Communist Party of Sri Lanka (Left) is urging the suspension of the
referendum in the Eastern Province and why it should be abandoned altogether.
Only then will it give confidence to the institutions and the people who can go
to the negotiations. A situation can also arise where mutual concessions can be
negotiated. Apart from this, resolutions, decisions and weapons that can be
made at the will of the Government of Sri Lanka, the Government of India or
unilateral decisions cannot establish peace in our country. This is our
position.
We have opposed
India's intervention from the beginning. The people of Sri Lanka have to make
some concessions because of the Accord made by the Sri Lankan government.
That concession was a tripartite negotiation that annexed India as well. The
Government of Sri Lanka, the Government of India and the other Liberation
Organizations should co-operate in these negotiations for a concerted and
successful effort. Leaving it and doing strangulation work on each other would
pose a great danger to our country and people.
You already know
our position on India. I have to say a few things back though. From the
beginning, the Communist Party of Sri Lanka, led by the likes of Peter Keuneman and Wickremesinghe, and later after the split, our Party has
been warning of "foreign intervention". Political Parties and
liberation movements in Sri Lanka have failed to heed this. India began its
expansion by taking advantage of the 1983 ethnic riots. The Sri Lankan government acted in support of it.
The Accord was struck. It's confusing in many
ways. In some respects, there are certain aspects that can help the liberation
and future of the Tamil people. But most of the issues in the Accord affect not only the Tamil people but
all Sri Lankans. This must be resisted or modified." -- K.A. Subramaniam
Addressed after the long hospitalization. Meeting held at Stanley Road, Jaffna
on 1989-05-01
Photo 100: Comrade
Sanjay Singhvi , Head of International
Affairs, Communist Marxist-Leninist Party of India giving
Memorial Lecture on “Imperialism and the Left Movement in the South Asian
Region” during the 24th Commemoration Event of Comrade K.A. Subramaniam in 2013,
Chaired by Professor S. Sivasegaram Emeritus
Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Peradeniya, Sri
Lanka.
Photo
101: This Photo was taken by Dr.
S. Visaharan in 1983 in front of ‘Sathiamanai’ Entrance’s which had no doors at
that time. From left S. Sathiarajan alias ‘Meeran Master’ (1962-2001) of
PLOTE, P. Lambotharan alias ‘Viji’ (1974-1990)
of LTTE, S. Suthaharan, K.A. Subramaniam (1931-1989)
and S. Kirupaharan.
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