1974 Tamil conference incident
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The 1974 Tamil conference incident occurred during the fourth World Tamil Research Conference was held in the city of Jaffna between January 3 and 9, 1974. Police action resulted in the tragic loss of nine lives, the loss of civilian property and more than 50 civilians sustaining severe injuries.[1]
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[edit] Early conflict
The SLFP-dominated government of Sirimavo Bandaranaike had requested that the conference be held in the capital Colombo but the conference organizers held it in the Tamil-dominant city of Jaffna[1].
On January 10, the organizers decided to hold a public meeting to distribute awards to those who had participated in the cultural program. The audience, more than 10,000 in number, spanned the road and overflowed into open expanses[1].
[edit] Unprovoked attack
Assistant Superintendent of Police Chandrasekera, a Sinhalese commissioned officer, led a truckload of anti-riot police of more than 40 to the scene. Their unheralded arrival ended in the chaotic disruption of the ceremony.
In the confusion, in which tear gas and live ammunition were fired, overhead electric wires were dislodged and seven civilians died of electrocution. Several others sustained severe injuries due to the police charging at them.[1]
[edit] The government response
The police officers involved were subsequently promoted instead of being reprimanded by the government.[1]
[edit] Legacy
This incident was the precursor to the revenge killing of the SLFP mayor of Jaffna, Alfred Duraiappah by the LTTE which began the era of Tamil militancy amongst the youth leading up to the current civil conflict.[1]
[edit] References
[edit] See also
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