This Wednesday, marking the 38th anniversary of the impactful 1987 Vanniyar reservation agitation, Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) founder S. Ramadoss and his son, Anbumani Ramadoss, observed the somber occasion with separate tribute ceremonies. Their distinct commemorations honored the 21 individuals who tragically lost their lives during the historic protest.
S. Ramadoss, flanked by his elder daughter P. Gandhimathi, Pennagaram MLA G.K. Mani, and Vanniyar Sangam president Pu. Tha. Arulmozhi, offered heartfelt floral tributes to the portraits of the 21 victims at Thailapuram. Following this, he also visited a memorial dedicated to the fallen in Sithani before proceeding to Cuddalore.
Addressing the media, Mr. Ramadoss emphasized that the immense sacrifice of these 21 individuals was not in vain, highlighting how millions have since benefited from reservation policies. He reiterated the PMK’s unwavering commitment to securing 10.5% internal reservation for Vanniyars in both educational institutions and employment, vowing to see this crucial demand realized.
Meanwhile, Anbumani Ramadoss, accompanied by his loyal supporters, conducted his own series of tributes. He visited Sithani and several other significant locations within the Villupuram district to pay his respects.
Notably, the Vanniyar Sangam premises in Tindivanam, typically the central point for such anniversary tributes by PMK leaders, remained closed this Wednesday. Police and revenue authorities had sealed the office just last week following a contentious dispute between supporters of S. Ramadoss and his recently expelled son, Anbumani, regarding access to the building.
In anticipation of potential unrest, a substantial deployment of police personnel was observed safeguarding the sealed office.