A Condemnation and Call for Justice

Preserving Tamil Historical Memory Amidst Acts of Desecration

ABC Tamil Oli, Wimal Navaratnam, Human Rights Activist

June 26, 2025

“When we destroy the monuments of our past, we do not erase history—we wound the soul of our identity. Justice for Thanthai Chelva is not just about restoring a statue, it’s about reaffirming who we are as a people.” — Wimal Navaratnam, Human Rights Activist

Introduction

In the early hours of June 25, 2025, a statue of S.J.V. Chelvanayakam, fondly known as “Thanthai Chelva” (Father Chelva), was vandalized and beheaded in Mannar. Chelvanayakam is revered as a foremost leader in Sri Lanka’s Tamil history, often called the *father of the Tamil nation* for his pivotal role in championing Tamil rights and self-determination. The desecration of his statue has prompted widespread outrage among Tamil political figures, community leaders, and residents. This report details the incident, situates it in historical context, and integrates a strong opinion condemning the act. It further calls for Tamil leaders and activists to pursue justice – including rebuilding the statue, demanding apologies, and ensuring accountability – while emphasizing the importance of preserving Tamil heritage and identity.

Incident Overview: Statue Beheaded in Mannar

Details of the Vandalism

The statue of S.J.V. Chelvanayakam stood in front of the Mannar District Secretariat, symbolically significant at the town’s center. On June 25, 2025, unidentified individuals vandalized the statue, completely severing the head, which was found discarded nearby. Local Tamil leaders and residents discovered the damage that morning, sparking immediate condemnation and distress within the community.

Condemnation by Political Parties:

The Ilankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi (ITAK) – the Tamil political party founded by Chelvanayakam – immediately condemned the desecration. ITAK members in Mannar swiftly filed an official complaint at the local Sri Lankan police station on Tuesday (June 25) morning.

Police Response:

The Sri Lankan police launched an investigation after visiting the site. By later that day, police confirmed one suspect had been arrested in connection to the vandalism. Investigations are ongoing, with authorities yet to disclose the identity or motive of the perpetrators.

Community and Leader Reactions:

Former Member of Parliament Charles Nirmalanathan, along with local ITAK leaders, government officials, and Mannar’s former Municipal Council Chairman Gnanapragasam Anthony Davidson, visited the site to assess the damage and express concern. Many Tamil leaders highlighted Chelvanayakam’s symbolic importance to the Tamil people and warned that such provocations could deepen communal tensions.

Community Outrage and Context

The outrage over the incident is rooted in Chelvanayakam’s stature in Tamil history. Community members and Tamil activists view the vandalism as:

An Attack on Tamil Heritage:

By beheading the statue of Thanthai Chelva, vandals attacked a symbol of Tamil nationalist heritage and the non-violent struggle for Tamil rights. Similar incidents have occurred in the past (e.g., the 2011 decapitation of a Chelvanayakam statue in Trincomalee), consistently interpreted by Tamils as attempts to erase historical evidence of Tamil presence and leadership.

A Provocation to Minorities:

Tamil leaders caution that desecrating such memorials is a provocative act that risks inflaming ethnic tensions. Mannar is part of the traditional Tamil homeland in Sri Lanka’s north-east, and attacks on cultural symbols are often seen in context of the island’s fraught ethnic relations.

Historical Context: S.J.V. Chelvanayakam (Thanthai Chelva)

To understand the gravity of this vandalism, it is essential to recognize S.J.V. Chelvanayakam’s role in Tamil history. Born in 1898, Chelvanayakam was a founding father of Sri Lankan Tamil political resistance in the post-independence era. Key aspects of his legacy include:

Leader of the Federalist Tamil Struggle

Founder of ITAK: Chelvanayakam co-founded the Ilankai Thamil Arasu Katchi (ITAK) in 1949, also known in English as the Federal Party. ITAK advocated for a federal constitution in Sri Lanka as a means to ensure Tamil political rights within a united country. It represented Tamil grievances against Sinhala majoritarian policies after independence (such as the “Sinhala Only” language policy and loss of minority safeguards in the 1972 constitution).

Non-Violent Advocate:

Chelvanayakam’s approach was firmly non-violent, earning him comparisons to Mahatma Gandhi. He led peaceful protests and “Satyagraha” campaigns in the 1950s-60s, fighting policies that discriminated against Tamils. He sought dialogue and pacts with Sinhala leaders, resulting in historic agreements like:

The Bandaranaike–Chelvanayakam Pact (1957):

an agreement with Prime Minister S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike, promising limited regional autonomy and language rights for Tamils. It was later unilaterally abrogated due to Sinhala nationalist opposition.

The Dudley–Chelvanayakam Pact (1965):

A similar understanding with PM Dudley Senanayake, also ultimately not implemented amid political pressures.

Vaddukoddai Resolution:

Perhaps Chelvanayakam’s most enduring contribution was his role in the Vaddukoddai Resolution of 1976. As the head of the Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF), he oversaw this historic declaration calling for an independent Tamil Eelam (a separate Tamil state) as a last resort after federal demands failed. It was the first explicit call for secession, reflecting frustration after decades of unmet demands. The resolution received an overwhelming mandate in the 1977 elections in Tamil-majority areas, though Chelvanayakam passed away in 1977, months after this milestone.

Revered Figure in Tamil Memory

Chelvanayakam’s death in April 1977 did not diminish his influence. Tamil communities continue to commemorate him:

Thanthai Chelva as a Symbol:

Known endearingly as Thanthai (Father) Chelva, he embodies the Tamil nationalist struggle’s values of dignity, rights, and peaceful resistance. He is respected across various Tamil groups, from northern Tamils to upcountry Tamils, for advocating non-violently even when Tamils were disenfranchised.

Memorial Statues and Events:

Statues of Chelvanayakam stand in Tamil areas, including the one in Mannar and another in Trincomalee, precisely because he is seen as a patriarch of the Tamil nation. Annual events are held on his birthday (March 31) and death anniversary (April 26) to garland his statues, pay tribute, and educate younger generations. For instance, Tamil leaders and citizens in Mannar have garlanded this very statue on birthdays and anniversaries, highlighting its importance as a site of remembrance.

It is within this context that the destruction of Chelvanayakam’s statue is felt as a profound offence to Tamil historical identity and collective memory. It is not merely vandalism of public property, but a symbolic assault on the Tamil narrative of their struggle for equality.

Community Opinion: Condemnation and Call to Action

“Destroying Thanthai Chelva’s statue is an outrageous act of disrespect – not only to the man himself but to the entire Tamil history he represents. Tamil leaders and society must not stand idle; we must respond decisively to preserve our heritage and seek justice.” – Community Statement

Strong Condemnation of the Act

Members of the Tamil community, including ABC Tamil Oli whose perspective is integrated here, unequivocally condemn the vandalism. The act is described as barbaric and cowardly, targeting a revered figure who can no longer speak for himself. It is widely seen as:

Cultural Vandalism:

An attempt to erase Tamil contributions and identity, by literally defacing a leader’s monument. As Mano Ganesan (a Tamil politician) said in a similar context, such attacks aim to “destroy historical evidence of the Tamil community’s history in their traditional land”. ABC Tamil Oli and others echo this sentiment, viewing the Mannar incident as part of a pattern of cultural erasure that must be resisted.

An Affront to Non-Violence:

Chelvanayakam stood for non-violent democratic struggle. To decapitate his statue is seen as an affront to those ideals, likely perpetrated by those who oppose reconciliation and minority rights. It is often implied that chauvinist or extremist elements are behind such acts, though investigations will confirm specifics.

Urging Tamil Leaders and Activists: Action Items

The opinion urges that Tamil political leaders, civil society, and activists take united, proactive steps in response. Key recommendations include:

1. Demand Accountability:

Pressurize law enforcement to thoroughly investigate and prosecute the perpetrators. Given past experiences, there is skepticism in Tamil circles about justice for crimes targeting Tamils or their symbols. Thus, Tamil lawmakers (including ITAK and the broader Tamil National Alliance, TNA) are expected to closely follow the case and ensure it is not swept under the rug. Public pressure and possibly international attention (through diaspora voices and human rights organizations) may be mobilized to demand a fair outcome.

2. Rebuild the Statue:

A strong consensus is that the statue must be restored or rebuilt immediately, sending a message that Tamil heritage cannot be destroyed so easily. Reconstruction efforts should involve local community support, possibly crowd-funding or diaspora funding if needed. There is historical precedent – for example, after the Trincomalee statue was decapitated in 2011, it was reconstructed and re-erected within days, with local council leaders taking initiative. Similarly, Mannar’s authorities and the public can work together to reinstall Thanthai Chelva’s likeness, possibly with improved security to guard against future attacks.

3. Public Apology and Acknowledgment:

The opinion calls for those in power (local government or even central authorities, if complicity is suspected) to issue a public apology for this incident. At minimum, Sri Lankan police or officials in Mannar should publicly acknowledge the severity of the crime. An apology would serve as a form of recognition that Tamil sentiments were deeply hurt and that such hate-driven vandalism has no place. While the perpetrators themselves are unlikely to apologize, an official condemnation by government leaders would help ease tensions.

4. Raise Awareness within the Tamil Community:

Use this incident as a rallying point to educate, especially the youth, about Chelvanayakam’s role and the ongoing challenges in preserving Tamil identity. Tamil activists propose organizing forums, school discussions, and community vigils at the statue site once it’s rebuilt. By doing so, what was meant to intimidate or erase history can instead strengthen community resolve to remember and honour their heroes. The Tamil media (newspapers like Virakesari and Tamil Guardian, which reported the event) are already giving it coverage; activists should leverage these and social media to highlight why this matters.

5. Unity Beyond Politics:

Importantly, ABC Tamil Oli’s opinion clarifies that condemning the statue’s destruction is not an endorsement of any political party. Chelvanayakam founded ITAK, but the outrage isn’t partisan – it’s shared by all Tamils irrespective of current political affiliations. Many Tamils might have criticisms of ITAK/TNA on other issues, but on this issue, there is unity in condemning the desecration. This nuance is crucial: the focus is solely on the attack on a Tamil leader’s memory, not on ITAK’s contemporary politics. Therefore, Tamil leaders across parties (ITAK, TNA, Tamil Congress, etc.) and even Tamil Nadu (India) voices should come together. The solidarity should also extend to non-Tamil allies who value multicultural respect – civil rights groups in Sri Lanka have often supported minority concerns and can be partners in denouncing this act.

Broader Significance: Protecting Tamil History and Identity

Underlying these calls to action is a deeper conviction: Tamil history and identity must be preserved against attempts to marginalize them. ABC Tamil Oli’s perspective emphasizes:

Historical Continuity:

Each time a Tamil icon’s memory is tarnished – whether a statue, a memorial, or a grave – it is an attack on the continuity of the Tamil story in Sri Lanka. The Tamils, as a people with a distinct language and culture, have a long history on the island (the Tamils of Eelam). Figures like Chelvanayakam represent chapters of that history where Tamils asserted their rights. Preserving their monuments is akin to preserving pages of a history book that others might wish to tear out.

Deterring Future Acts:

A robust response now will set a precedent that desecration will not achieve silence. If perpetrators see communities rebuilding and honouring the figure even more, the incentive to commit such hate crimes diminishes. Conversely, if there is apathy, it could embolden similar vandalism elsewhere. There have been instances of vandalism of statues of other leaders (for example, anti-caste leader Periyar’s statues being vandalized in India led to huge public outcry and quick responses). Similarly, Tamils must show that they will always rebuild and remember.

Justice and Reconciliation:

Some voices link this incident to the larger picture of ethnic reconciliation in Sri Lanka. The continued targeting of Tamil symbols indicates that true reconciliation is still a work in progress, more than 15 years after the civil war’s end. By holding perpetrators accountable and publicly affirming Tamil heritage, Sri Lanka can take small but meaningful steps toward trust-building. Tamil activists urge the government: today it’s a statue, tomorrow it could be something even more harmful – thus, nipping intolerance in the bud is critical for future peace.

Responses and Developments (as of June 26, 2025)

Official Reactions

Tamil Political Leadership:

Leading Tamil politicians have spoken out. ITAK and TNA representatives in Parliament have condemned the act in the strongest terms during media briefings. Some, like MP Charles Nirmalanathan (who visited the scene), have called it “a brazen attempt to insult Tamil people’s struggles” (statement reported in local news). They vowed to raise the issue in Parliament and ensure police follow through with the case. Tamil Nadu (India) political commentators on social media also expressed solidarity, reflecting the pan-Tamil sentiment that such an attack is unacceptable.

Sri Lankan Government:

At the time of writing, a formal statement from the central government is not yet public. However, police spokespeople in the Northern Province have confirmed the arrest of a suspect and promised a complete investigation. It remains to be seen whether higher officials, such as the Minister of Public Security or the President, will comment directly. The Tamil community is watching for at least an acknowledgment, if not an apology, from the state for failing to protect a monument under its jurisdiction.

Community Actions

Vigils and Protests:

That very evening (June 25), candlelight vigils were held by local youth and civil society groups at the damaged statue’s site. Images on social media showed people placing flowers near the statue’s base and holding signs reading slogans like “Hands off our history” and “Justice for Thanthai Chelva”. Peaceful protests are planned in Mannar and possibly Jaffna, calling for swift justice and no repetition of such incidents.

Restoration Plans:

The Mannar Urban Council has reportedly coordinated with sculptors to recast the missing head of the statue. Given the previous mold or design is likely available (the statue had stood for years), reconstruction might be rapid. Community fundraisers have already begun to cover repair costs, though it’s expected the government should foot the bill as a responsibility. There is talk of unveiling the restored statue on July 5, 2025 (tentatively) with a public ceremony – turning the event into a reaffirmation of Chelvanayakam’s stature in Tamil hearts.

Awareness Campaign:

Tamil activists and educators in Mannar plan to organize an open seminar on Chelvanayakam’s legacy at a local hall next week. The aim is to remind people, especially youth, why this statue was there: to honour a man who devoted his life to Tamil rights through democratic means. Pamphlets summarizing his life and achievements (for example, his role in the Bandaranaike-Chelva Pact, the Vaddukoddai Resolution, etc.) are being printed for distribution. This incident, while painful, is galvanizing a positive educational push.

Clarifying Stance on ITAK and Current Politics

It is important to note, as ABC Tamil Oli emphasizes, that condemning the statue’s destruction is separate from endorsing any current political party or its members:

- The ITAK (Federal Party) continues today as part of the Tamil National Alliance (TNA). While Chelvanayakam founded ITAK in 1949, ABC Tamil Oli (and many Tamils) may have differing views on the TNA/ITAK’s performance in contemporary politics. The outrage here is not about supporting ITAK politicians per se, but about respecting a historical leader who happens to be ITAK’s founder.

- This distinction is made to prevent politicization of the issue. The call for justice is a communal call, above party lines. It focuses on cultural and historical respect rather than political loyalty. Thus, even critics of ITAK are joining hands with ITAK members in protests – a rare show of unity in a sometimes divided polity.

Tamil activists also note that justice for this act should be blind to politics: if, hypothetically, perpetrators were linked to any political groups (extremist Sinhala nationalists or otherwise), that should not shield them from prosecution. Likewise, if any Tamil youth retaliated in ways that break the law, that too would be discouraged. The emphasis is on lawful, principled action reflecting Chelvanayakam’s own values of non-violence and the rule of law.

Conclusion

The vandalism of S.J.V. Chelvanayakam’s statue in Mannar has struck a deep chord in the Tamil community. It is widely condemned as an intolerable attempt to undermine Tamil heritage and pride. In response, Tamil leaders and activists are mobilizing for justice and restoration, ensuring the crime does not achieve its presumed intent of intimidation or historical erasure. By rebuilding the statue, demanding accountability, and harnessing the incident to educate and unify the community, Tamils aim to transform an act of destruction into an occasion for renewal of their historical consciousness and solidarity.

This incident also serves as a reminder to the broader Sri Lankan society: true reconciliation and coexistence require respect for each other’s cultural symbols. An attack on the memory of a minority leader is an attack on the promise of a pluralistic Sri Lanka. It is thus incumbent on all fair-minded citizens, Sinhala and Tamil alike, to condemn such violence. Moving forward, preserving Tamil history and identity in the island’s narrative will be crucial. Thanthai Chelva’s ideals of justice through non-violence and his vision of equality remain ever relevant. Upholding his memory against vandalism is part of upholding those ideals against the forces of hatred.

The Tamil community’s stand is clear: You may break a statue, but you cannot break our resolve to remember our history. In rebuilding Chelvanayakam’s statue and seeking justice, Tamils reaffirm that their history and heroes will continue to stand tall, literally and figuratively, for generations to come.

References (Inline Citations):

- Tamil Guardian (2025). *“Statue of Thanthai Chelva vandalised and beheaded in Mannar”*. – Details of the incident, reactions by ITAK, and historical notes on Chelvanayakam.
- Tamil News Network (2011). *“Mano Ganeshan condemns decapitation of Chelva’s statue”*. – Quotes on interpretation of such vandalism as destroying historical evidence of Tamils.
- Tamil News Network (2011). *“Reconstructed Thanthai Chelva statue re-opened in Trincomalee”*. – Example of rebuilding a vandalized Chelvanayakam statue, indicating community and official response.
- Tamil Guardian (2022). *“Thanthai Chelva’s birthday commemorated in Mannar”*. – Historical reverence, mentions of Chelva’s achievements like the Vaddukoddai Resolution and pacts.
- Colombo Telegraph (2021). *“S J V Chelvanayakam: The Father Of The Tamil Nation”*. – Background on Chelvanayakam’s life, quotes from his speeches and references to his ideology.
- Wikipedia (n.d.). *“Vaddukoddai Resolution”*. – Context and significance of the 1976 Vaddukoddai Resolution under Chelvanayakam’s leadership.
- Virakesari (Tamil) (2025). *“Mannaril Thanthai Chelvavin Silai Udaippu; Oruvar Kidthai”* (Tamil: “Thanthai Chelva’s statue broken in Mannar; one arrested”). – Local language report confirming the incident and police action.
- Additional local news sources from Mannar (e.g., NewMannar website) and Tamil diaspora discussions used for community reaction context.

In solidarity,

Wimal Navaratnam

Human Rights Advocate | ABC Tamil Oli (ECOSOC)

Vandalism of S.J.V. Chelvanayakam’s Statue in Mannar – A Condemnation and Call for Justice