The memories of Tamils who dedicated their lives towards the Tamil people’s liberation will not be erased despite the Sri Lankan state’s relentless efforts to do so, said Ananthy Sasitharan.
Speaking to the Uthayan, the Northern Provincial councillor, condemning the Sri Lankan state destruction of Tamil graves and military intimidation of those commemorating their war dead, said,
“The day of our Martyrs that dedicated their lives for our Nation's liberation has an inseparable place in the hearts of our people.”
“Since the military occupation of the North-East, heroes day was observed as the police and military watched. However it was widely and freely observed in Vanni region until the end of 2009 war, but today there is not even a remembrance hall. Lighting lamps in public places is prohibited, military presence has increased, intelligence officers intimidate the public and Maveerar cemetries have been demolished. These are all planned and implemented by the Sri Lankan government. In this time, the truth is, that every Tamil will observe Heroes day in some way.”
“Their sentiments towards Maveerar cannot be controlled. Since then, even until now, all Tamil people emotionally observe sacred Heroes Day without any diversity. It is impossible to control Tamil people's sentiment even if all of Sri Lanka works against them, because the Tamil martyrs sacrificed their lives for the people’s greater goal. Their sacrifice ought to be celebrated.”
“Martyr sacrifices form a part of collective Tamil history and their place in people's heart is inseparable.”
“I am observing this divine day with all Tamils.”
Speaking to the Uthayan, the Northern Provincial councillor, condemning the Sri Lankan state destruction of Tamil graves and military intimidation of those commemorating their war dead, said,
“The day of our Martyrs that dedicated their lives for our Nation's liberation has an inseparable place in the hearts of our people.”
“Since the military occupation of the North-East, heroes day was observed as the police and military watched. However it was widely and freely observed in Vanni region until the end of 2009 war, but today there is not even a remembrance hall. Lighting lamps in public places is prohibited, military presence has increased, intelligence officers intimidate the public and Maveerar cemetries have been demolished. These are all planned and implemented by the Sri Lankan government. In this time, the truth is, that every Tamil will observe Heroes day in some way.”
“Their sentiments towards Maveerar cannot be controlled. Since then, even until now, all Tamil people emotionally observe sacred Heroes Day without any diversity. It is impossible to control Tamil people's sentiment even if all of Sri Lanka works against them, because the Tamil martyrs sacrificed their lives for the people’s greater goal. Their sacrifice ought to be celebrated.”
“Martyr sacrifices form a part of collective Tamil history and their place in people's heart is inseparable.”
“I am observing this divine day with all Tamils.”