CPI (M) against naming Madurai airport after Thevar
Staff Reporter
Do not withdraw cases registered during caste clashes: Varadarajan
N. Varadarajan
MADURAI: The Communist Party of India (Marxist) has urged Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, to reconsider his assurance to name the Madurai airport after freedom fighter Muthuramalinga Thevar.
The Puthiya Tamilagam had raised a similar demand.
Addressing a public meeting here on Tuesday night, CPI(M) State secretary N. Varadarajan said the Government should stick to its earlier decision not to name government organisations and State-run bus divisions after caste leaders.
“Bitterness remains”
Recalling Thevar’s contribution to freedom struggle, Mr. Varadarajan said, “Still there is some bitterness against him among the Dalits.”
Vandalising statues
Mr. Varadarajan said that southern districts witnessed caste clashes and one person was killed after the attack on Tamil Nadu Congress Committee president, M. Krishnasswamy, who came to attend the Thevar jayanthi celebration last month. He also pointed to the vandalising of statues of Thevar and B.R. Ambedkar in Madurai and near Rajapalayam.
“Taking all these into consideration, the Chief Minister should reconsider the assurance on naming Madurai Airport after Thevar,” Mr. Varadarajan, said.
The veteran leader also advised the State Government not to withdraw police cases registered during caste clashes. “Withdrawing the cases booked under SC and ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act 1989 will not augur well,” he said.
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