Professional Documents
Culture Documents
1
C.F. Fuller , The Canephor Flame: Popular Hinduism and Society in India, Princeton
University Press, (Princeton,1992) , p. 70
2
K.Veeramani, Manavak Kanmanigale ! Dravidar Manavar Kazhagatthil Cheravendum-An?
(Tamil), Dravidar Kazhaga Veliyeedu, (Chennai, 2005), p. 4.
Percentage of Education of Brahmins and Non-Brahmin Students in
Schools and Colleges during 1889 to 1926
TABLE-3.1
SCHOOL EDUCATION
COLLEGE EDUCATION
3
Patricia Captain, Class & Gender in India, Women and their Organizations in a South
Indian city, Tavistock Publications Ltd., (London, 1985), p . 25.
86
an English news paper published by the South Indian Liberal Federation which
became the name of the party later.
4
P.Rajaraman, The Justice Party-A Historical Perspective 1916-37, Poom Puzhil Publizeshers,
(Madras,1988), p. 185.
5
Fort Nightly Reports, Government of Madras, (Madras, 1.2.1929), p. 1.
6
Fort Nightly Reports, Government of Madras, (Madras, 4.3.1929), p. 5.
7
Under Secretary Safe File (Secret), No.774, Government of Madras, Madras, 12.10.1931.
87
respect’’ which opened the gates of freedom for all, socially and politically.8 All
eyes were turned expectantly on the youth of the nation. The young blood
wanted to dare and do; the youth were inspired by the spirit of adventure. It was
thought that the dynamic energy of the youth could be utilized to the best
advantage of the nation.9 The incident which took place at Cheramadevi
Gurukulam was the outstanding example.
8
Mirror of the Year, A Collection of Sir. A Ramaswami Mudaliars Editorial in Justice, Dravidar
Khazhagam, (Madras, 1927), p. 327.
9
Ibid., p. 330.
10
Gazzetteers of India, Tirunelveli District Gazetter, Vol.I, Government of Madras, (Madras, 2002),
pp. 266- 267.
88
Tamil Nadu the Nadars were the first people to fight for the cause of
temple entry. In order to attain the temple entry right, they agitated in the
temples at Tanjore, Madurai, Erode, Arupukottai, Kamudhi, Kalugumalai,
Srivilluputtur, Sivakasi, Tirunelveli and Tiruchendur.11 With the rise of
E.V.Ramasami Naicker, a demand was made on behalf of the depressed class
people whom they said were not only entitled to enter the temples but also
could go up to the sanctum sanctorum. In January 1927, some non-
Brahmins made an attempt to enter the Madurai Meenakshiamman temple,
but were prevented. E.V.Ramasami Naicker acting as the Chairman of the
Devaswam Committee of Erode unanimously passed a resolution in favour of
temple entry of all classes of people.12 Students also took part in the temple entry
movement. The temple entry was led by A.Vaidyanatha Iyer who took a batch
of five Dalits to make their first entry into the Meenakshi Temple on July 8,
1939.13
11
C.Paramarthalingam, Social Reform Movement, (Madurai,1995), pp.203-206.
12
Kudi Arasu, Chennai, 2.2.1930.
13
The Hindu, Chennai, 10.7.2012.
14
Interview with Dr. M.Renganathan,(close relative of S.Dhavamani Rajan), Madurai, on 24.5.2012.
15
Kavinjar Karunanandam, Anna Sila Ninaivugal (Tamil), Muvendhar Acchagam, (Chennai, 2005), p.
153.
89
to meet on one platform. Hence Dhavamani Rajan was praised as “Mother of
Dravida Student Movement”. Students R.Nedunchezhian, K.Anbhazhagan,
Elamvazhuthi, and K.A.Mathiyazhagan attended this Conference from
Annamalai University C.N.Annadurai (former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu)
spoke to the students. The Kudanthai Conference revealed the hidden student
power to C.N.Annadurai. From this time onwards, Dravida Students Movement
rapidly developed.16 A Dravidian Student Association Conference was held in
Madurai on October 20, 1944. It was attended by 600 students’ representatives
and 1,000 visitors from various colleges affiliated to the University of Madras. A
permanent central student secretariat with Dhavamani Rajan as Secretary was set
up.17
16
Souvenir,Dhavamani Rajan Mani Vizha Malar, Dhavamani Rajan Mani Vizha Committee, 3.4.1981,
pp.5-6.
17
E.Sa.Viswanathan, The Political Carieer of E.V.Ramasami Naicker, A Study in the Politics of Tamil
Nadu 1920-1949 , Ravi &Vasanth Publishers, (Madras, 1983), p. 307.
18
Thoopur Thiruvengadam, Anbhuch Chezhiyan. Ne., Sedhu Era., Manavar Thi. Mu.Ka.
Varalaru, (Tamil), (Student DMK History), Thenpulam Pathippagam, (Chennai, 2004), p. 60.
90
in one and the same dining hall, Brahmin students protested against this equality
of castes, and withdrew from the hostels to protect their orthodoxy.19
19
Interview with Dr.C.Venkatesan an inmate of the Hardinge Hostel in the 1940 dated 21-08-2013.
20
Viduthalai, Chennai, 16.2.1949 .
21
Report of the Administration of the Police of the Madras State, Government of Madras, Madras,
1957, p.86.
22
Interview with Ela. Pughazhenthi, DMK State Student Wing Secretary , on 19.2.2010, Anna
Arivalayam, Chennai.
91
exams in Government Mohammadan College, Madras.23 About fifty percent of
the students stayed away from their classes on January 7, 1949 to protest against
the detention of students for the University examinations. Two of those detained,
resorted to a hunger strike but gave it up the next day.
23
Viduthalai, Chennai, 3.1.1949.
24
Viduthalai, Chennai , 12.1.1949.
25
Viduthalai., Chennai , 20.1.1949.
26
Report on the Administration of the police of the Madras State, Government of Madras, Madras,
1953, p. 39.
92
Indisciplinary Activities of Students
In 1949 the Vice Chancellor of the Annamalai University took
disciplinary action against 32 students of whom 15 were expelled. He also
ordered the postponement of the reopening of the engineering and technology
sections of the university. As trouble was expected at the time of the reopening
of the other sections, orders under section 144 Cr P.C were promulgated and
strong precautionary measures were taken in the University campus.27 The
atmosphere in the Annamalai University came back to normal. A couple of
students attempted to revive trouble but were arrested.28
27
Fort Nightly Report , Government of Madras, (Madras, 1949 ), p. 119.
28
Fort Nightly Report, Government of Madras, (Madras, 1949), p. 145.
29
G.O.No.3645, Education Department, 25.11.1949.
93
per the report, the main object of the scheme was to inculcate discipline,
leadership, initiative and loyalty among pupils at an impressionable age so as to
enable them to be prepared and ready for any emergency that may arise in the
country. The training was considered purely as education.30
30
G.O.NO. 205, Education Department , 2.7.1949.
31
V.Renuka Devi, Dravidian Movement Its Genesis and Growth, Nakkeeran Pathippagam, (Chennai,
1999), p. 10.
32
Anthropologic, Vol.45, No.2 , Caladium Anthropology Society, , 2003 , p. 270.
33
Fort Nightly Report, , Government of Madras, (Madras, 7.12.1944), p. 2
34
Fort Nightly Report, , Government of Madras, (Madras, 2.4.1948), p. 2.
94
the society35. The welfare agenda in Tamil Nadu was influenced by
Dravidian ideology as inspired by E.V.Ramasami Naicker in pre-independent
India.
35
Souvnier, South Region Dravida Munnettra Kazhagam , p.35
36
Christopher Jaffrelot, India’s Silent Revolution: the Rise of the Lower Castes in North
India,
C. Hurst of Co.(Publishers) Ltd, (London, 2003), p. 162.
37
G.O. NO. 974, Public Services Department, 29.4.1948.
95
Shenbagam Durairajan Case
Soon after the commencement of the Constitution, the Communal
G.O was challenged as violative of its provisions. The number of students
who applied to join in Medical Colleges in the state was 1346. Out of this, the
Government’s selection team interviewed 883 students directly and
selected only 304 students after conducting tests. Based on allotment of seats
in special categories, Government selected 15 students. An appeal was filed in
the Supreme Court of India against the High Court judgement which was
contradictory to the Indian Constitution regarding the admission of
students in Government Engineering Colleges and Medical Colleges. Two
affected parties Shenbagam Durairajan and C.R.Srinivasan filed a case insisting
that Communal G.O. blocked their admission to Guindy Engineering College.
The already existing reservation system of Muthiah Mudaliar was banned
due to the case filed by Shenbagam Durairajan. Strong reactions surfaced
against the judgement of the Madras High Court Bench.38
The High Court issued a writ in both cases, holding that the Communal
G.O. as applied to admission to educational institutions was repugnant to
the clauses in the Constitution prohibiting discrimination against any
citizen on grounds only of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth.
There upon there was a widespread agitation urging the Government to
take suitable measures for the retention of the Communal G.O. Article
16(4) of the Constitution says, ‘nothing in this article shall prevent the
38
The King’s Rally, Vol. XXVII, No.10, October, 1950, p. 274.
39
A.K.Rajan, Reservation and Some other Important Issues Under the Constitutions ,
( Chennai, 2009), p. 43
96
State from making any provision for the reservation of appointments or
seats in favour of any backward class of citizens which in the opinion
of the State was not adequately represented in the services under the State’.
The trouble rather was about the applicability of the G.O. to admission to
educational institutions such as the Medical and Engineering Colleges.40
Students Demonstration
To oppose the Supreme Court decision the revolt started in the
Pachaiyappa College. Students from Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Karnataka all
joined with Tamil Nadu students and revolted. Vaniyambadi College, Arts
College, Salem and Virudhunagar College students held processions. Work
stopped at Annamalai University. The Madurai American College students
revolted. Hartal was observed at Kudanthai and Kervai. Trichy and Tirunelveli
40
The King’s Rally, Vol. XXVII, No.10, October, 1950, p. 272.
97
colleges were closed. Apart from that, school students from all places raised
their voice in order to practise the Communal G.O.41
41
Students DMK , op.cit., p.96.
42
G.O. NO. 292, Education Department, 3.2.1950.
43
Viduthalai, Chennai, 3.9.1950.
98
under the leadership of comrade Elanchezhian, a Law College student.44
E.V.Ramasami Naicker convened a Conference of Non-Brahmins in Trichy on
December 3, 1950. It was a massive meeting attended by representatives from
all parties. They unequivocally demanded that the Communal G.O. should be
revived and given effect to it immediately.
Later the DMK Government raised the quota for BC to 31percent. Tamil
Nadu provided 69 percent reservations in jobs and admission for courses
including medical and engineering colleges. The Tamil people regained the
reservation rights as a result of the meeting conducted by Kuthoosi Gurusamy,
Muthaiah Mudaliar, C.N. Annadurai and Chengalvarayan. Now there is a rule
in Indian Constitution (46 Article) in support of caste wise and reservation wise
44
Vidutalai, Chennai, 5.9.1950
99
representation. According to that the Government had been able to do good for
the betterment of people who are educationally and economically backward
in the society.
45
Students and Youth, File No. 83 (1), AICUF, National Document Centre, p. 49.
46
N.V.Kalaimamani, Thesiya Thalaivar Kamarajarin Vazhkai Varalaru (Tamil) , p. 301.
100
education.47 Many parents refused to send their children to schools. 48 In villages
students strength decreased. Hence C.Rajagopalachariyar was forced to withdrew
his education scheme.49 Because of this scheme 700 teachers were removed
from service in Primary Schools in Tirunelveli district.50 The Education Minister
C.Subramaniyam legally announced in the Legislative Assembly on May 18, 1954
that, Chennai Circar (Government) decided “to abolish the new Education
Scheme of C.Rajagopalachariyar”. On June 1, 1954 at Andhra Legislative
Assembly P.T.Pattabiram Rao promised that “in the present year
C.Rajajgopalachari’s Varnasirama Education Policy would not be
promulgated”. Later the scheme was removed.51
47
Report on the Adminstration of the police of the Madras State, Government of Madras, Madras
1953, p.35.
48
Fort Nightly Report, Government of Madras, (Madras, 1953), p.11.
49
Viduthalai, Chennai, 12.3.1954.
50
Viduthalai, Chennai, 22.3.1954.
51
Viduthalai, Chennai, 2.6.1954.
52
Viduthalai, Chennai, 12.3.1954.
101
plans were completed.53 “C.Rajagopalachariyar closed many schools due to his
Kulakkalvi Plan, where as K.Kamarajar opened educational knowledge and
awareness in every nook and corner of Tamil Nadu”.54 More than that
K.Kamarajar met leaders of the students and advised them not to indulge in any
indisciplinary activities. Like the school started by the Socialists the DK started
a Student’s Training Centre at Mavoor (Tanjore) where 40 students were trained
for party work.. The instruction given was stated to be combined mainly in
oratory and party propaganda.
53
K.Sakthivel , op.cit., pp. 56-58.
54
Fort Nightly Reports, Government of Madras, (Madras, 1949), p. 2.
55
http://hindi.linguistics.illinois.edu/documents/ABRIEFPROFILEOFTHEHINDILANGUAGE_000.pdf.
56
Encyclopedia Brittanica, Vol. II., p.579 and The Indian Review, Vol xxxi., (Madras, January 1930),
p.66.
102
introduced English language in India.57 By Macaulay’s plan, English was
standardized in administration, courts and education in India. It was imposed in
the name of official language by the British in India.58
57
Pugazhenthi, Muzhipor, Pallavi Pathippagam,( Erode), p. 25.
58
K. Anandam. Asu., Hindiya? Indiyava(Tamil)., Sivalinga Nurpathippukazhagam, (Erode,1978 ),
p. 16.
59
Ibid., p. iii.
60
The Indian Review, Vol xxxi., January 1930, p. 66.
61
Pratab Chandra Chunder, On Understanding Gandhiji, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan , ( Mumbai,
2003), p. 18.
103
resolution that Hindi should not be imposed upon the people of Tamil
Nadu, and that it should not be made a compulsory language in schools. 62
62
M.D. Gopalakrishnan, E.V.Ramasami Naicker Father the Tamil Race, Emerold, (Madras, 1991),
p. 35.
63
Ira Neduncheziyan, Thiravida Iyakka Varalaru, Navalur Nedunchezhian Arakattalai, (Chennai,
1996), p. 701.
64
Nambi Arooran, Tamil Renaissance and Dravidian Nationalism, 1905 – 1944, Koodal Publishers,
(Madurai , 1980), p. 195.
65
Ira, Neduncheziyan, Thiravida Iyakka Varalaru, op.cit., p.701.
104
List of secondary schools in which Hindustani was recommended to be
introduced in the year 1939-40.
TABLE-3.2
District School Name
Municipal High School, Vizianagaram.
Municipal High School, Bimlipam.
Municipal Middle School,
antanpetan,Vizianagaram.
Board High School, Narasapatam
VIZAGAPATNAM
Board High School, Narasannapeta.
Mrs. A.V.N College, Vizagapatam. (School
Department)
Maharajah’s College, Vizianagram. (School
Department)
Board High School, Samalkota.
EAST GODAVARI Veerasalingam High School, Rajahmundary.
P.R. College, (School Department), Cocanada.
Municipal High School, Ellore.
WEST GODAVARI Board High School, Undi.
Board Middle School, Akividu.
Municipal Branch Middle School,Bezwada
Board High School, Nandigama
Board High School, Tadanki
KISTNA DISTRICT Hindu College, (School Department),
Masulipatam.
Dornaka Diocesan Girls’s High School,
Bezwada.
George Coronation School, Tirumella.
Board High School, Pedanandipadu.
GUNTUR Hindu College, Hindu School, Guntur
Taluk High School, Tenali.
St. Joseph’s Girls’ High School, Guntur.
Municipal High School, Nandyal.
KURNOOL Board High School,Atmakur.
Board High School, Markpur.
Board High School, Harpanahalli.
BELLARY
Board High School, Royadrug.
Municipal high School, Hindupur.
Municipal High School, Tadpatri.
ANANTPUR
Board High School, Uravakonda.
London Mission High School, Gooty.
Board High School, Rajampet.
GUDDAPAH
Board High School, Pulivendla.
105
Board High School,Buchireddypalem
NELLORE
A.B.M. Girls’s Nellore
Corporation High School, Nungambakkam.
Kellet High School, Tirplicane.
Rama Krishna Mission High School, Mylapore.
MADRAS T.T.V. High School, George Town.
Progressive Union School, Madras.
Vidyodaya Residential High School,
Thyagaroyanagar
Board High School, Walajapet.
Besant Memorial School, Adyar.
CHENGALPATTU Hindu High School, Madurantakam.
Pachayappa Branch Middle School, Little
Kanjeevaram.
Municipal High School, Walajapet.
Municipal High School, Thiruvannamalai.
NORTH ARCOT Board High School, Cheyyar.
DISTRICT Voorhees College, Vellore. (School
Department)
Hindu Middle School, Vaniyambadi.
Board High School, Madanapallee.
Board Middle School, Pakala.
CHITTOOR Theosophical High School, Manapalle.
Sherman Memorial Girls’s High School,
Chittoor.
Board High School, Panruti.
Board High School, Portonovo.
SOUTH ARCOT
Ramaswami Chettiyar’s Town High School.
DISTRICT
Chidambaram
Pachiyapp’s High School. Chidambaram.
Board High School, Pattukootai.
Board High School, Ayyempet.
Findlay High School, Mannargudi.
Little Folwer High School, Kumbakonam
TANJORE
Banadurai High School, Kumbakonam.
Central High School, Tiruvadi.
St, Josph’s Hiogh School for Girls,
Kumbakonam.
Board High School, Musiri.
Ponnayya’s High School, Hridayapuram.
TRICHY Trichy.
National High School, Trichy.
St. Philomens’s Girls’ High School, Trichy.
106
Municpal High School, Palani.
Board High School, Cholavandan.
MADURAI Rangaswami Ayyar High School, Madurai.
St.Joshph’s School High School, Madurai.
Board High School, Kamuthi.
Board High School, Paramakudi.
RAMNAD Sri Meenakshi Sundareswarar Vidyasala.
Karaikudi.
Hindu High School, Watrap
Board High School, Kovilpatti.
Board High School, Nanguneri
TIRUNELVELI Caldwell High School, Tuticorin.
Hindu Middle School, Alwartirunagar.
Coronation High School, Srivaikuntam.
Municipal High School, Tiruppur.
Municipal High School, Pollachi.
COIMBATORE Board High School, Dharapuram.
Board High School, Erode.
Mahajana High School, Erode.
Board High School, Tiruchengodu
SALEM
Board High School, Hosur.
Board High School, Manjeri.
Board High School, Cherukunnu.
Board High School, Quilandy.
MALABAR
Board Moyan Girls’ High School, Palghat.
High School, Ottapalam.
Zamorin’s College School, Palghat.
Board High School, Udupi.
SOUTH KANARA
Board High School, Coondapur.
DISTRICT
Ganapat High School, Mangalore.
Source: G.O.No. 775, E.D.P.H. Department, 3.4.1939.
107
into the field to oppose Hindi as a compulsory subject. As a 12 year old
boy, Arangannal was attracted with the speech of C.N.Annadurai and dedicated
his life to society.66
M.Karunanidhi the former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu who loved his
mother-tongue Tamil very much in his school days, united many students and
started a few societies like the Children’s Reformation Society, the Youth
Society etc. Everyday evening he led a procession with some students in
Thiruvarur streets. They held flags in their hands, sang M.Karunanidhi’s songs
which depicted their feeling towards mother-tongue. M.Karunanidhi gave an
anti-Hindi slogan paper to his Hindi teacher which was written by the students;
for this act, the next day he got punishment in the class. M.Karunanidhi, said that
“I am one of the examples for how Hindi agitation attracted the students”.68 A
‘
Student Sammelanam’ was organized by M.Karunainidhi and he became its
organizer. 200 students participated in it. M.Karunanithi, V.KO.Shanmugam,
Arangannal, Venkatachalam and S.B.Chidambaram joined together and
organized ‘Tamil Nadu Manavar Mandram’ at Thiruvarur. Bharathithasan also
sent a greeting song as follows.
66
A.Nambi Arooran, op.cit., p. 34
67
History of Freedom Movement , Bundle No.106, Extracts From G.Os releating to Communal Anti-
Hindustani Movement in Madras Presidency, Government of Madras, Madras, p. 576.
68
Kalaingar M. Karunanidhi, Nenchukku Neethi , Vol.1, Tirumagal Nilayam, (Chennai, 2007), pp.
43-45.
69
M.Karunanithi, Kalanjarin Pasumai Ninaivugal (Tamil), Bharathi Pathippagam,(Chennai, 2006),
p.20.
108
In this meeting students R.Nedunchezhian, K.Anbhazhagan, and
K.A.Mathiyazhagan spoke about the glorious Tamil language and the
importance of Dravidian Movement.
70
K.Thirunavukkarasu., Dravida Iyakkath Thungal , 2010, pp. 119-120.
109
TABLE-3.2
Hindi was taught as a language under part II for Intermediate,
B.A and B.Com courses in the following Colleges:
71
Compiled by K.Veeramani, Collected Works of E.V.Ramasami Naicker E.V.R, The E.V.Ramasami
Naicker Self-Respect Propaganda Institution, (Chennai, 2008), p. 165.
72
G.O.No.1332, E.P.H Department, 29.4.1949.
110
teachers taught atheism and cultivated aversion (among students) towards
other languages.73
Anti-Hindi Conference
During the period of Omandhur Ramasamy, the Education Minister
Avinasilingam introduced Hindi as a compulsory subject in schools.74 While
speaking to the Theyagaraya College students, Omandhur Ramasamy (then
Premier) told that English must be taught from the beginning stage with
the regional language.75 On August 10, 1948 E.V.Ramasami Naicker started a
second anti-Hindi agitation. Another anti- Hindi conference was held under the
leadership of Maraimalai Adigal.76 These agitations were supported by former
Congress nationalists like M.P.Sivagnanam and Thiru V.Kalyanasundaram.
C.N.Annadurai was appointed as the leader for conducting the picketing
programme. Picketing was started at one of the schools in the city in the
morning of August 10, 1948. About 10 volunteers stood outside the school
shouting slogans and exhorting the students not to study Hindi. The leader
of the Anti-Hindi Struggle Committee, C.M.Janarthanam led a small crowd
of demonstrators consisting of 21 ardent members of the Tamizhaga Arasu
Katchi (TAK) to the Madras Legislative Assembly which was in session
on August 20, 1948.77
73
Viduthalai, Chennai, 1.9.1951.
74
Sa.Maruthavanam, Tamizhagam Kattha Thalaivar (Tamil, Meena Buddhaga Nilayam, (Chennai), p.
230.
75
Viduthalai , Chennai , 17.7.1954
76
S. Annamalai, Thanthai Periyar: E.V.R. Vazhkkai Varalaru, (Tamil) , (Visalatchi Nilayam,
Chennai), 2003, pp. 128-129.
77
Fort Nightly Report, Government of Madras, (Madras, 22.8. 1948), p.2.
78
Viduthalai, Chennai, 28.8.1948.
111
were arrested.79 Opposing this on August 23, 1948, students did not attend their
classes at Annamalai Nagar. 500 students led a procession by 3 p.m. against
Hindi and condemned the arrest of the leaders.
On August 26, 1948 at 8.30 a.m. 500 students from National High
School and Municipal High School of Mayavaram led a procession through
Pattamangalam Street to oppose the introduction of compulsory Hindi education.
The Education Minister, Avinasilingam Chettiar mentioned in the Assembly
meeting that “ Hindi was not a compulsory subject in schools”. But the
same minister wrote an article in a Government newspaper ‘Chennai
News’, “Only for this Hindi must be taught in all High Schools” and an
order issued by the Government in connection with that. The news in
Chennai newspaper regarding compulsory Hindi education made the whole
Tamil Nadu rise to a peak of anger. Many students of Municipal High School,
Chennai, standing in front of the gate, spoke about the condition of school,
the role of students and the importance of banning Hindi. The Headmaster
called five students, who were the leaders of the team and warned them
that they should not indulge in any such opposition. In case of
disobedience, severe action would be taken on those students as directed by
the Educational officers.
79
Viduthalai, Chennai 23.8.1948.
80
Viduthalai, Chennai, 27.8.1948.
112
Captain K.Ranganathan was arrested due to his 20 days protest near
Muthialpet High School. At Mylapore , 20 students signed a paper
informing that “ we don’t study Hindi” and handed it over to the picketing
leader. Similar incidents of picketing went on at T.T.V. High School, Hindu
Theological High School and also at Saidapet High School. The
Education Minister who had gone to speak at Salem College was strongly
opposed by the students, and they raised slogans against him.81 As a result of
the demonstration, Avinasilingam Chettiar, the Education Minister, invited the
leader of the Struggle Committee for talks which ended in failure. So the
leader of the Struggle Committee and General Secretary exhorted the TAK
members to get prepared for a long struggle.82
81
Ibid.
82
Tamil Murasu, Chennai, 5.9.1948.
83
Viduthalai., Chennai, 4.9.1948.
84
K.A.Matiyazhagan, Dravida Manavar Iyakkam, Aivai Mandram, (Chennai, 1951), p.14.
113
burnt Hindi books. At Maignanapuram, when the exam paper for Hindi
was given, more than fifty students wrote “Long live Tamil and Hindi
Down! Down!” on the answer sheet. At Chennai Assembly, Comrade
G.Rajamannar argued and raised a question that , if Hindi was not
compulsory then how could a teacher slap a boy on his cheek. A dispute
was going on the topic “Should Hindi be a common language or not?” at
Chennai Christian College.85
On September 15, 1948 with the support of the, DK., High School
students of Tamil Nadu boycotted classes against the implementation of
compulsory Hindi. Students belonging to the Tanjore District Kuthalam High
School left the school and went in a procession. “The influence of the Aryans
and the Varnasrama principles correlated together to plot against the
Dravidian culture of the South. This was the fundamental reason for the
unity of hundreds of students who gathered in front of the Salem London
Mission High School.87
85
Viduthalai, Chennai, 4.9.1948.
86
Viduthalai, Chennai , 18.9.1948.
87
Viduthalai, Chennai, 26.9.1948.
114
On September 15, 1948 more than five hundred students boycotted
the classes, tore the Hindi books and went on a procession at Pudukottai.
Picketing was conducted in front of the following schools - Bhavani
Nattanmai Kazhaga High School, Srinivasa Rao High School (Ambur),
Edward High School , Sathur and Pudukottai Pragathambal Branch School;
students set fire to the Hindi books. Even a Brahmin student shouted
“Hindi, Down! Down! “At Papanasam High School, there was a different
scene - students came out of classes in groups and set fire to Hindi books.
As it was the last day of paying fees, some students wrote Hindi
Down! on currency notes and paid their fees. At Kumbakonam Town High
School, hundreds of students raised anti-Hindi slogans holding the tri
coloured national flags in their hands. College students went on procession
through the important streets of Kumbakonam.88
88
Viduthalai, Chennai, 17.9.1948.
89
Viduthalai, Chennai, 27.9.1948.
115
success of picketing.90 On September 15, 1948, at Tanjore, Mannar Kudi ,
Ayyampettai, Rasipuram, Jayam Kondan, Ariyalur, school students held anti-
Hindi agitation demonstration.91 On the same day school students held anti-
Hindi agitations at Arakonam, Villivakkam, Thiruthurai Poondi, Thiruppathur,
Musiri and Kovilpatti.92
“We don’t study Hindi’’ was the shouting, heard from Krishnagiri
High School students. Picketing went on at the same time in Kadalur,
Thiruchengodu, Namakkal and at Srirangam schools. Due to the confusion
caused by some students bell rang 15 minutes earlier at Diamond Celebration
High School in Gopi. The Headmaster warned the students prior to the
picketing day that the participants would be dismissed. Yet the boys and
girls decided not to attend Hindi classes. Two students were arrested for the
same cause at Madras Pachaiyappan School. An eight year old student,
studying in Chidambaram Ramasamy Chettiar High School, tore his
Hindi books into pieces and threw it in front of the school. When other
students indulged in picketing, the school remained closed for the day.
Viruthachalam and Kulithalai High School students too promised that they
Parents also supported their wards. The Headmaster cancelled Hindi classes
instead Tamil and Maths were taught. He announced that there was no Hindi
class.93
90
Viduthalai, Chennai, 21.9.1948.
91
Viduthalai, Chennai, 22.9.1948.
92
Viduthalai, Chennai, 17.9.1948.
93
Ibid.
94
Fort Nightly Report, Government of Madras, (Madras, 20.9.1948), p. 2.
116
boycotted the primary and secondary schools to oppose the Government
introduction of Hindi.95
95
Viduthalai, Chennai , 6.2.1949.
96
Report of the Administration of the Police of the Madras State, Government of Madras, Madras,
1955, p.81.
97
Interview with Ela.Pughazhenthi,.Anna Arivalayam, Chennai on 13.4.2010 and Aaricchan, Kadum
Pottiyil Therthal Kalam Kandavargal, (Tamil), Pavana Pathippagam,(Thrunelveli,2005), p.53.
117
The following Table gives the name of students who were dismissed,
arrested, for whom issue of Transfer Certificates had been ordered
TABLE-3.4
List of students who were dismissed is given below:
List of students for whom issue of Transfer Certificates had been ordered
Sl. No Name Course
1. Nilakandan K II Class
2. Joseph A. Lucas I Class
Dasari
3. Engineering I Year
Venkataramiah
4. Jambulingam T.M Engineering IV Year
5. Muthuraghavan N III Class
6. Ramaswami G. V Hons Mathematics
7. R.Namagiri III Hons
8. Venugopal K I Class
Source: G.O.No.587, Education Department, 24.2.1950.
118
In 1950, Education Minister Madhava Menon answered in the Assembly
in order to enable the heads of educational institutions to take disciplinary
action under the Madras Educational Rules against students who took part
in Communist activities. The Government had requested the Inspector -
General of police to instruct the police officers to furnish details of convictions,
subversive activities etc., of such students to the head of the institutions
through the District Magistrates concerned. 98
119
quite essential that the study of educated youth should be through the
instrumentality of their regional language. Education in the regional language
will not only be necessary for their provincial activities, but it will enable
them to enrich their literature and develop their culture”. This commission
recommended that the medium of instruction at the university stage should
be the same as at the elementary level.101 At the same time, students must have
a chance to study Hindi. The provision for language in the schools may be
as follows: “(i) The mother-tongue or regional language part-I should be
compulsory (ii) English should be compulsory (iii) choice may be allowed
between part II of the mother- tongue or the regional language and any
classical or South Indian language (iv) choice may also be allowed
between Hindi and an additional craft or approved activity”. 102 A Report of
the UNESCO (1951) concluded that the Government should take necessary
steps to improve the vernacular languages in their country.
101
R.Nallakannu, Mozhi Vazhi Manilam “Tamil Nadu” (Varalatru Parvai), (Tamil), New Century
Book House, (Chennai, 2005), p. 82.
102
Madras Information, Vol.VI, September 1950, p. 36.
103
T. Alagarasan, Hindi Ethirppu Varalaru, (Tamil), Valanarasu Pathippagam,( Chennai, 1966), p. 26.
104
Fort Nightly Report, Government of Madras, (Madras, 13.3.1950), p. 3.
105
Kalaingar, E.V.Ramasami Naicker Piravamalirunthal...? (Tamil), (Chennai, 2008), p.15.
120
announcement to withdraw the introduction of compulsory Hindi and
introduced English and the regional language as compulsory subjects.106 At
Sattur and Virudhunagar in Ramanathapuram District there were clashes
between the Kazhagmites (the followers of the DK and DMK) and the
members of the Youth Congress and a number of arrests were made by
the police to bring the situation under control. In many places the
members of the Youth Congress removed the tar used by the Kazhagamites
to deface Hindi names on the name boards.107
106
Fort Nightly Report, Government of Madras, (Madras, 10 .8.1950) p. 2.
107
Fort Nightly Report, Government of Madras, Madras, 1953, p. 4.
108
Parthasarathi, T.M, op.cit., p.138.
*15 students joined together, started the Rational Youth Khazhagam which later changed into
Dravida Manavar Munnettra Khazhagam (DMMK).
109
* N.V.N.Somu was the student Secretary when he was studying in Standard 10. In those independent
days students conducted model parliaments in schools. N.V.N. Somu acted as opposition party leader in
a ‘model parliament’ held for all school students at Wesley High School, Chennai which helped him later
to become a political leader.
110
Nam Nadu, Chennai, 3.10.1959.
121
was optional in the sense that students who did not wish to learn Hindi
could learn an additional craft or engage themselves in any other approved
activity. The First Language under the scheme was the mother-tongue or the
regional language, and English was the Second Language of study and was
compulsory to all.111
111
G.O.MS.NO.2695, Health, Education and Local Administration Department, 30.12.1953.
112
Dravida Nadu, Chennai , 26.7.1953.
113
Report on the Administration of the Police of the Madras State, Government of Madras, Madras,
1953, p. 35.
114
Ibid., p. 181.
122
helped these students.115 On the very first day of his college, N.V.N.Somu
participated in the Pachaiyappa’s College student struggle in 1952-53 against the
arrest of M.Karunanithi and N.V.Natarajan.
115
Thoopur Thiruvengadam, Anbhuch Chezhiyan. Ne., Sedhu Era., Manavar DMK Varalaru,
(Tamil), Thenpulam Pathippagam, (Chennai, 2004) , p.114.
116
G.O. No. 697, Education Department, 10.4.1959.
117
G.O. NO. 167, (Public) (Partition), 17.1. 1956.
123
language for the examination of All India Service in 1960 and English would be
another optional language”.118
124
K.Kamarajar allaying all fears that Hindi would not be made compulsory
in this State, E.V.Ramasamy Naicker at the last moment called off the
agitation scheduled for August 1, 1955.122
Note: The figures presented include the sum for the non-Hindi Union
territories also.
Source : Programme for the Development and Propagation of Hindi,
Government of Madras, (Madras, 1954), pp.31 and 46-69.
122
G.O. No.2016, Education Department, 17.12.55.
125
Students and Rashtriya Swayam Sevakh Sangh
Government issued an order banning communal and political
propaganda in school premises; if such meetings were conducted it would
mean that school boys were free to join the Rashtriya Swayam Sevakh
Sangh (RSS) and other organizations.123 It was therefore, suggested that the
Government should pass an order making it obligatory on students to join
the Cub packs, Scout Troops or Cadet Corps of their respective schools and
prohibiting students below the age of 18 and all teachers from joining any
volunteer organization confined to any community or controlled by a
political body. The following instructions were issued by the Government
in connection with the activities of the RSS Sangh and they were
requested to see that they were strictly adhered to.
123
G.O. NO. 257 , Public Department, 4.2.1948 .
124
G.O.NO.899, Health Education Department , 22.2.1957.
125
Fort Nightly Report, 22.11. 1948, p. 3.
126
purpose.126 In 1955 it was brought to the notice of the Government that the
management of the Theagaraya College, Washermanpet in Chennai, had allowed
the General Council of the DMK to meet in the college premises in which they
discussed about their party policies and the government activities.
126
G.O. NO.536, Education Department, 5.3.1951and G.O.NO.899, Health Education Department ,
22.2.1957.
127
G.O. NO.769, Education Department, 30.4.1957.
127
economic viability and homogeneity of culture, were established on the
recommendations of the States’ Reorganisation Commission.128
Andhra Movement
In 1908 the circar issued an order. According to that, the orders should be
in Telugu in taluk offices, police stations, high courts, and registrar office.
Because of this order the Tamilians who lived there were not able to read their
mother-tongue Tamil. K.Vinayagam, Secretary of Security Council who was
born in Chittoor was forced to learn Telugu language. At the time of District
Kazhaga Rule, Tamil schools were totally destroyed. It was made compulsory
for the Tamil students to learn in Telugu schools.129 Meanwhile the Telugu
people wanted the separation of Andhra State.
128
Verinder Grover, Rajana Arora., Federation of India States’ Reorganisation: Reconstruction and
Consolidation, Deep & Deep Publications, (New Delhi, 1994), p.xiii.
129
Pazha. Nedumaran, Thamizhan Izhantha Mann, Thamizhkulam Pathippalayam, (Madurai, 1995),
p. 36 .
130
G.O.No 457, Public Department , 6.4.1914.
131
P. Renganath Rao, Andhra Under British Rule , (Hyderabad , 1911) , p.85.
128
comprehensive restoration for the creation of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil, Kerala and
Karnataka provinces. Hyderabad state was liberated from Nizam on September
17, 1948, using military force which was known as Operation Polo, led by
Sardar Vallabhai Patel and made part of the Indian Union and became a separate
State.132
129
actively participated in the movement which was suppressed by the
authorities. Aligning themselves with the students, even the Congress and
socialist parties took a stand against the formation of Vishalandhra.*135
135
Economical and Political Weekly, January 13, 2007, p.906.
* Vishalandhra = Vishal + Andhra, Vishal means broder, Andhra means Andhra State – that is
extensive Andhra.
136
Nam Nadu, Chennai, 2.4.1955.
137
Swatantra, Vol. IV, 23.7.1949, p.48.
130
the city of Madras138. The Jawaharlal Nehru, Vallabhai Patel and Pattabi
Sitarammayya Committee (JVP), report did not mention that the Madras city
should go to the Tamils. It was in favour of the Andhras.139 In the beginning
the Central leadership was not in favour of Vishalandhra. On October 1953,
Jawaharlal Nehru criticised the idea of Vishalandrha.
When the Government did not take steps towards the formation of United
Karnataka, Narayana Achutapa, a twenty eight year old socialist worker of North
Kanara district in Bombay, began a fast unto death at Mongod since March 5,
1953. He withdrew his fasting on March15, 1953 after ten days as Nijalingappa,
the President of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee, assured him that
everything possible would be done for achieving the goal of a United Karnataka
State141.
138
N.Subramanian, History of Tamil Nadu AD 1565 – 1956, Koodal Publishers, (Madurai,) pp.246-247.
139
Narayana Rao, op.cit., p.211.
140
Report of the Committee for Consultation on the Situation in Andhra Pradesh, Government of
India, ( New Delhi, 2010), p. 1.
141
The Hindu, Chennai, 16.3.1953.
142
Anita Diehl, E.V.Ramasami Naicker E.V. Ramaswamy, (Delhi ,1978), p.62.
131
C.N.Annadurai quoted that it was the aim of the DMK to achieve Dravida
Nadu and until then fight would continue. Students should concentrate on their
studies; It may be useful for them in future for their entry into politics.
K.A.Mathiazhagan informed that they donated 801 Rupees collected from the
college students for the case of DMK volunteers.
143
Report of the Linguistic Provinces Commission, Government of India, (New Delhi, 1949),
p.15.
144
Ma.Po.Si’s Autobiography, op.cit, p.398.
145
Ibid, pp.360 -361.
132
On August 16, 1947 M.P.Sivagnanam, with his volunteers went to
Thirupathi, and started a revolt asking “Thirupathi for Tamils”. This was known
as “North Boundary Struggle” and came to an end with the support of student
community.146 As Chairman of the Educational Council, M.P.Sivagnanam
put his head and heart in the improvement of standard of education and
condition of educational institutions. Having studied in Corporation school,
M.P.Sivagnanam was aware of the problems of the Corporation schools
which he wanted to ameliorate.147 His interest in the education of the Telugu
speaking minority deserves praise. The Telugu students formed nearly five
percent of the total students of the Corporation schools. He said that even if one
student wanted to learn Telugu, a teacher should be appointed.148
M.P.Sivagnanam had such feelings towards the Telugus. The Thamizhaga
Arasu Kazhagam (TAK) was the first political party to give lead to the
movement for renaming the State of Madras as “Tamil Nadu” even before
the martyrdom of Sankaralinga Nadar, who became a martyr 70 days after
the commencement of his fast unto death on October 18, 1956. Students
took fast for one day.149 M.P.Sivagnanam addressed many meetings among
college students about the rename of the state.
146
Varalatru Chuvadugal , p.413.
147
Proceedings of the meeting of the Council Madras Corporation, December 10,1952.
148
Proceedings of the meeting of the Council of Madras Corporation, March 9, 1953.
149
Puthiya Thalaimurai, Tamil Nadu, 13.3.2014, pp. 60-61.
150
Madras Legislative Assembly Debates, Vol.XXXIX, Government of Madras, (Madras, 1961),
pp.481-482.
133
Regarding the border between Arakonam taluk of Madras and the
Tiruttani taluk of Andhra Pradesh, 60.5 percent of the population of
Tiruttani taluk consisted of the Tamilians while the Telugus accounted for a
substantial minority. Adjoining these villages was a compact Telugu area in
Tiruttani, which has to be retained by the Andhra Pradesh. Puthur taluk, being a
Tamil area, was to be transferred to Madras.151 According to the Report of
Pataskar, Thiruvenkadam Hills did not form the northern boundary of
Tamil Nadu; they still lay far beyond the border. The Tamil areas in Puthur
and Chittoor would not also given to Tamil Nadu.152
151
Report of H.V. Pataskar on the Madras-Andhra Border Dispute, p.16.
152
M.P.Sivagnanam , Yenathu Porattam (Tamil), ( Madras, 1975), pp. 821-822.
153
Puccalapalli Sundaraya ,Telengana People’s Struggle and its Lessons, (New Delhi, 1972.) , p.
114.
134
educational qualification and written tests were made compulsory for
Government services. Even for the appointment of engineers, judges and
Government pleaders, competitive examinations were conducted.
154
Report to Chief Secretary to Government and Dewan of Travancore, Inspector General of
Police, (Travancore, 30.11.1944).
155
The Hindu, Madras, 11.10. 1955 .
156
Ibid, November 22, 1955.
135
the atrocities in Devikulam and Peermedu. Hence it was decided to observe
June 30, 1954 as Devikulam Day. But the Magistrate promulgated 144 of the
Criminal Procedure Code, prohibitory order for a period of one month
from June 29 onwards to prevent the TTNC leaders and others to induce
the people. On July 3, 1954 A.Nesamony, Abdul Razaak and A.
Chidambaranatha Nadar went to Munnar to address a political meeting
where the police banned their entry. When they defied the prohibitory
order on July 4, the police arrested them and they were sentenced to six
months imprisonment. Hartals were conducted throughout the Tamil areas
of Travancore in protest against the arrest of the Tamil leaders.157
157
The Hindu , Chennai , 7.7.1954.
158
K.Sankaran Commission Report, Part I, Gazettee No. 51, 21.12.1954, p. 1
159
Travancore Government Gazette, No.51, 21.12.1954, p. 20.
160
Puthiya Thalaimurai, Chennai, 26.1.2012, p. 10.
136
their places. Many students and youth hid themselves for two months from their
houses.161
161
Pazha.Nedumaran, op.cit., , p.34
162
Interview with Vincent former student of Irenipuram Government High School at Kappukad on
28.12.2012.
137
The former student M.Cosman remembered the August 11, 1954
happenings. Under the leadership of Sahul Ahmed, nearly 500 students from
V.K.P. School, Kulachel led the procession. They marched along the important
streets and returned to their school. Because of the support of the teachers and
the Head Master, the students were not affected by the police force. Students led
processions in various parts of Tamil Nadu. Under the leadership of Sam at
Marthandam, and Eraniel Ravi (Son of P. Ramsami Pillai, Trivancore Tamil
Nadu Congress Secretary), students held huge processions. Eraniel Ravi’s head
was wounded by the police lathi charge. At Nagercoil students revolted under
the leadership of M.C. Balan.163
163
Interview with Pulavar M. Cosman , former student of V.K.P. School , Kulachel , Marthandam , on
29.5.2010.
164
Report of the Administration of the Police of the Madras State, Government of Madras, (Madras,
1955), p.82.
165
Chattai, 11.12. 1955.
138
on February 20, 1956. Students were requested not to go to schools.166 While the
students struggle was in force in one side the Central Government passed the
States Reorganization Act which was not satisfied the Tamilians.
166
Thoppur Thiruvenkadam, Ni. Anbucheziyan, Era. Sedhu, Manavar Thi. Mu. Ka.
Varalaru,(Tamil) Thenpulam Pathippagam, (Vellore, 2004), op.cit., p. 83.
167
N.Subramanian, op.cit., p.248.
168
G.O. NO. 167, (Public) (Partition) Department, 17.1.1956.
139
approval for the States Reorganisation Commission Report of the Government of
India. The State Legislature also accepted it. As per the States Reorganisation
Act, Vilavancode, Kalkulam,Thovalai, Agastheeswaram taluks and a part of
Shencottah taluk, from November 1, 1956, formed part of Madras State. Even
though the students, TTNC, and the public took much effort to safeguard
Devikulam, Peermedu they failed in their struggle.169 A combined meeting of the
Malabar, United Students Organisation USO and the Thiruvithancore-Cochi
Students Federation was held in Thiruchur from October 26 to 28 1956. It was
at this meeting that the Kerala Students Federation (KSF) was born. The State of
Kerala was also born on November 1, 1956. The heaviest task of India (State
Reorganisation) came to an end easily with the student support. Thus the student
community showed its strength in solving the issue of States Reorganisation. Its
well to conclude the States Reorganisation with the words of Dr.Ambedkar,
“Though the country and the people may be divided into different states for
convenience of administration, the country is one integral whole, its people a
single people living under a single imperium derived from a single source”. 170
169
The Hindu, 1.11.1956. (When Kamarajar handed over a part of Shencotai to Kerala, we lost
Kalladai river.)
170
Commission on Center-State Relations Report, Vol. 1, Evaluation of Centre State Relations in India,
(Delhi, 2010), p. I.
140