C. Suntharalingam, Sri Lankan academic, lawyer, and politician (b. 1895)

Chellappah Suntharalingam: A Pioneer Ceylon Tamil Academic and Statesman

Chellappah Suntharalingam (Tamil: செல்லப்பா சுந்தரலிங்கம்), born on 19 August 1895, was a towering figure in Ceylon's intellectual and political landscape until his passing on 11 February 1985. A distinguished Ceylon Tamil, he seamlessly transitioned from a celebrated academic career to becoming a prominent politician, serving as a Member of Parliament and a significant government minister during a pivotal era in the nation's history. His life exemplified a profound commitment to education, public service, and the rights of the Tamil people.

Early Life, Education, and Illustrious Academic Career

Born in Pungudutivu, Jaffna, Chellappah Suntharalingam received his foundational education at the prestigious St. Patrick's College, Jaffna. His exceptional intellect led him to pursue higher studies in England, where he graduated from the University of London. Upon his return to Ceylon, he embarked on an illustrious academic career, distinguishing himself as a brilliant scholar and educator. He achieved the esteemed position of Professor of Mathematics at University College Colombo, the precursor to the modern University of Colombo. This made him one of the very first Ceylonese — particularly a Ceylon Tamil — to hold such a senior academic post, profoundly influencing a generation of students and contributing significantly to the scientific community of the island nation.

Transition to Politics and Parliamentary Service

Suntharalingam's deep-seated commitment to public welfare and the future of Ceylon led him to enter the political arena. He was initially elected to the State Council of Ceylon, representing the Mannar-Mullaitivu constituency. With the advent of independence and the formation of Ceylon's first parliament, he successfully contested the 1947 general election, securing a seat as the Member of Parliament for the Vavuniya electoral district. He was subsequently re-elected from Vavuniya on several occasions, demonstrating the strong mandate and trust placed in him by his constituents. His parliamentary tenure was marked by fervent debate and a steadfast dedication to the issues affecting his electorate and the broader Tamil community.

Ministerial Role and Principled Resignation

Following the 1947 general election, Chellappah Suntharalingam was appointed as the inaugural Minister of Commerce and Trade in the first cabinet of independent Ceylon, led by Prime Minister D.S. Senanayake. In this crucial role, he was instrumental in shaping the economic policies of the nascent nation. However, his ministerial career was relatively short-lived but marked by a profound act of principle. In 1948, he famously resigned from the cabinet in strong protest against the controversial Ceylon Citizenship Act. This legislation effectively disenfranchised a large segment of the Indian Tamil estate workers, a move Suntharalingam vehemently opposed, viewing it as a grave injustice and a precursor to systematic discrimination against minority communities. His resignation underscored his unwavering commitment to justice and equality, even at the cost of political office.

A Champion for Tamil Rights and Federalism

Post-resignation, Chellappah Suntharalingam became an even more vocal and independent advocate for Tamil rights. He was a foundational member of the All Ceylon Tamil Congress, formed with G. G. Ponnambalam, though he later diverged from the party due to differing approaches, especially regarding cooperation with the ruling United National Party. He established himself as an "Independent Tamil" voice in Parliament, consistently challenging policies he perceived as discriminatory. He was a staunch opponent of the "Sinhala Only Act" of 1956, which declared Sinhala as the sole official language, foreseeing its divisive impact on the multi-ethnic fabric of Ceylon. Suntharalingam was among the earliest proponents of federalism as a solution for power-sharing and, significantly, was one of the first prominent leaders to publicly advocate for a separate Tamil state (Eelam) when other solutions failed to protect the rights and identity of the Tamil people.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chellappah Suntharalingam

Who was Chellappah Suntharalingam?

Chellappah Suntharalingam was a distinguished Ceylon Tamil academic, politician, Member of Parliament, and government minister, known for his early advocacy of Tamil rights and federalism in independent Ceylon (now Sri Lanka).

What was his academic background?

He was a Professor of Mathematics at University College Colombo, making him one of the first Ceylonese to hold such a senior academic position after graduating from the University of London.

What significant political roles did he hold?

He served as a Member of the State Council, Member of Parliament for Vavuniya, and the first Minister of Commerce and Trade in Ceylon's inaugural cabinet. He famously resigned from his ministerial post in protest against the Ceylon Citizenship Act of 1948.

What was his stance on Tamil rights?

Suntharalingam was a passionate advocate for Tamil rights, strongly opposing discriminatory legislation like the Ceylon Citizenship Act and the Sinhala Only Act. He was an early proponent of federalism and, subsequently, a separate Tamil state (Eelam) to safeguard the interests of the Tamil community.

When did Chellappah Suntharalingam live?

He was born on 19 August 1895 and passed away on 11 February 1985.