Alfred Duraiappah: A Legacy Forged in Sri Lankan Political Turmoil
An academic exploration into the life, political contributions, and tragic demise of a pivotal figure in Jaffna's history.
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Introduction
A Prominent Sri Lankan Politician
Alfred Thangarajah Duraiappah (15 June 1926 โ 27 July 1975) was a distinguished Sri Lankan lawyer and politician. His career was marked by significant public service, including his tenure as the Mayor of Jaffna from 1970 until his untimely assassination in 1975. Prior to his mayoral role, he also served as a Member of Parliament for Jaffna from 1960 to 1965.[2] His life and political trajectory are integral to understanding the complex socio-political landscape of Sri Lanka during the mid-20th century.
A Tragic End
Duraiappah's life was cut short by assassination, an event widely attributed to the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and its leader, V. Prabhakaran.[22][23] This act marked a significant point in the escalating ethnic and political tensions that would later define the Sri Lankan Civil War. His death underscored the perilous environment for political figures in the region during a period of intense militant activity and ideological conflict.
Early Life & Education
Roots in Vannarpannai
Born on 15 June 1926, Alfred Duraiappah hailed from Vannarpannai, a town in northern Ceylon. His family was involved in the manufacturing of ice and aerated water, providing him with a background rooted in local commerce.[1] This upbringing likely afforded him a deep understanding of the local community's needs and aspirations, which would later inform his political endeavors.
Academic and Legal Foundations
Duraiappah received his early education at St. John's College, Jaffna, a notable institution in the region.[1][3] Following his collegiate studies, he pursued legal education at the Ceylon Law College. In 1948, he successfully qualified as a proctor, subsequently joining the Unofficial Bar of Jaffna. His legal profession provided him with a platform for public engagement and a foundation for his subsequent entry into politics.[1][3][4]
Political Journey
Local Government Leadership
Duraiappah's political career commenced in 1952 when he was elected to the Jaffna Municipal Council. His dedication and leadership quickly became evident, leading to his appointment as Deputy Mayor in 1958.[1][4] This early experience in local governance provided him with practical insights into public administration and community development.
Parliamentary Representation
In March 1960, Duraiappah successfully contested the parliamentary election for Jaffna as an independent candidate, securing a seat in the Ceylonese Parliament. He notably defeated prominent figures such as G. G. Ponnambalam of the All Ceylon Tamil Congress and S. Kathiravelupillai of the Federal Party.[5] He was re-elected in the July 1960 parliamentary election, again overcoming Ponnambalam and Kathiravelupillai.[6] However, he lost his seat in the 1965 election, placing third.[7] He made another attempt in the 1970 parliamentary election, finishing second.[8]>
Mayor of Jaffna & Political Affiliation
Duraiappah was elected Mayor of Jaffna on 15 February 1970, and subsequently re-elected on 22 April 1971.[9] By April 1971, he had aligned himself with the governing Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), becoming its chief organizer in the Jaffna District.[10][11][12] This affiliation allowed him to secure government funding for municipal projects, a move that garnered criticism from Tamil militants who viewed him as a "traitor" and a collaborator with the central government.[13][14][15] In February 1971, Tamil militant Pon Sivakumaran attempted to assassinate Duraiappah by throwing a hand grenade at his car, though Duraiappah was not present at the time.[11][12] He also faced criticism for his handling of the 1974 Tamil conference incident, which resulted in 11 deaths.[16]>
Tragic Demise
The Day of the Assassination
On 27 July 1975, Alfred Duraiappah, having recently returned from Brunei where his wife served as Chief Medical Officer, visited the Varadaraja Perumal Temple (Maha Vishnu Temple) in Ponnalai for his weekly worship. He was accompanied by his fourteen-year-old daughter, Eesha, and was traveling in a Peugeot 404 provided by his supporters.[17][18][19]
The Attack and Aftermath
Upon their arrival at the temple, Duraiappah was fatally shot by masked assailants.[1][20] D.K. Rajaratnam, a member of the Jaffna Municipal Council who was with Duraiappah, also sustained injuries. Reports indicated that the three masked gunmen subsequently fled in the Mayor's car, which was later discovered abandoned by the police at Sendankulam. A comprehensive search operation was initiated by the police, with a special team led by Ana Seneviratne, Deputy Inspector General of Police for Range B, dispatched under orders from Prime Minister Sirimavo Bandaranaike. The entire Jaffna peninsula was cordoned off, and all vehicles were subjected to searches. The inquest into his death was conducted by J.M.D. Jesurathnam, Magistrate of Malakkam. As news of the shooting spread, many gathered, and Chelliah Kumarasuriar, the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications, visited the hospital.[4][17]>
Attributions and Responsibility
While some members of Duraiappah's family suspected his political rival, Posts and Telecommunications Minister Kumarasuriar, of involvement in the assassination,[21] the act was widely attributed to the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and its leader, V. Prabhakaran.[22][23] On 25 April 1978, the LTTE publicly claimed responsibility for the assassination of Duraiappah and ten other individuals through an open letter published in the Virakesari newspaper.[24][25][26]>
Enduring Legacy
Memorial and Recognition
In recognition of his contributions and public service, the Duraiappah Stadium in Jaffna was named in his honor.[27] This stands as a lasting testament to his impact on the region and its people, despite the controversial circumstances of his death.
Family and Descendants
Alfred Duraiappah was married to Dr. Parameswary Duraiappah, and together they had a daughter named Rochana (Eesha).[1] He was a Christian.[28] His legacy extends to his family, with his nephew, Nishan Duraiappah, currently serving as the chief of Peel Regional Police in Ontario, Canada, demonstrating a continued commitment to public service within the family.[29]>[30]>
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Important Notice
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