A. Thiagarajah, Sri Lankan educator and politician (d. 1981)

Arumugam Thiagarajah (Tamil: ஆறுமுகம் தியாகராஜா; 17 April 1916 – 25 May 1981) was a distinguished Sri Lankan Tamil figure whose life traversed the fields of education and national politics. Born on April 17, 1916, he became a revered teacher before embarking on a significant career as a politician, ultimately serving as a Member of Parliament, representing the interests of his constituents and the broader Sri Lankan Tamil community.

A Foundation in Education

Before his foray into the national political arena, Arumugam Thiagarajah dedicated a considerable portion of his life to education. In an era where teaching was not just a profession but often a pathway to community leadership, his role as a teacher would have positioned him centrally within his local society. Educators during this period were deeply respected figures, often serving as mentors and moral guides, shaping young minds and contributing significantly to societal development. This background likely provided him with a profound understanding of the everyday needs and aspirations of the people, which would later inform his political service.

Stepping into the Political Arena

Arumugam Thiagarajah transitioned into politics, bringing with him the discipline and community-focused ethos developed during his teaching career. He successfully contested elections to become a Member of Parliament, representing the Point Pedro electoral district. Point Pedro, located at the northernmost tip of Sri Lanka, is a significant area within the Northern Province, predominantly inhabited by Sri Lankan Tamils. His election to Parliament underscored the trust and confidence his community placed in him to advocate for their concerns on a national platform. He first entered the House of Representatives in the March 1960 general election, running under the banner of the All Ceylon Tamil Congress (ACTC), a prominent political party representing the Tamil community at the time. His commitment to public service was further affirmed when he was re-elected in the subsequent 1965 general election, solidifying his role as a consistent voice for his constituents during a pivotal period in Sri Lankan history.

Legacy and Contribution

Throughout his time as a parliamentarian, Arumugam Thiagarajah contributed to the legislative process and represented the unique challenges and cultural distinctiveness of the Sri Lankan Tamil people. His service in Parliament, spanning critical years in post-independence Ceylon (which became Sri Lanka in 1972), played a part in shaping policies and fostering dialogue within the diverse political landscape of the nation. He passed away on May 25, 1981, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated public service, rooted in both the classroom and the parliamentary chambers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Arumugam Thiagarajah?
Arumugam Thiagarajah was a notable Sri Lankan Tamil teacher and politician who served as a Member of Parliament for the Point Pedro electoral district.
What were his primary professions?
He was initially a respected teacher before embarking on a career in politics.
When was Arumugam Thiagarajah born and when did he pass away?
He was born on April 17, 1916, and passed away on May 25, 1981.
Which constituency did he represent as a Member of Parliament?
He represented the Point Pedro electoral district, located in the Northern Province of Sri Lanka.
Which political party was he associated with?
Arumugam Thiagarajah was elected to Parliament representing the All Ceylon Tamil Congress (ACTC).
During which period did he serve as an MP?
He was first elected in the March 1960 general election and was re-elected in the 1965 general election, serving in the House of Representatives during significant years in Sri Lankan history.