The passing of former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh marks the end of an era in Indian politics. While his death is a moment for human compassion, it also necessitates a critical examination of his tenure and the policies that inflicted deep wounds on the Tamil community.
Manmohan Singh’s Tenure as Prime Minister
Manmohan Singh served as India’s Prime Minister from May 22, 2004, to May 26, 2014, a decade characterized by his dependence on the Congress Party leadership, particularly Sonia Gandhi. Despite his distinguished academic credentials as a Ph.D. in economics, Singh’s leadership was often criticized as lacking independence. His tenure prioritized political calculations over justice, particularly for marginalized communities like the Tamils.
As a Sikh, a member of a community with its own history of struggles for political rights, there was hope that his leadership would embody empathy and a commitment to justice. Unfortunately, this expectation was not met. Instead, his tenure became synonymous with Tamil suffering. His administration presided over policies that actively enabled the suppression of Tamil political aspirations and supported the Sri Lankan state during one of the most brutal genocides in Tamil history.
Complicity in Tamil Genocide
Manmohan Singh’s government was complicit in aiding the Sri Lankan state during the final phases of the Tamil genocide. Arms, intelligence, and unwavering diplomatic support were extended to Sri Lanka under his leadership, enabling the destruction of Tamil communities and aspirations. The Tamil people, who had already endured decades of oppression, faced their darkest chapter under his administration.
Failures of Tamil Leadership
Adding to the Tamil plight, figures like R. Sampanthan, former leader of the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), failed to rise to the occasion. Instead of championing Tamil rights, Sampanthan is accused of prioritizing personal benefits over justice, including compromising an international investigation into Sri Lankan war crimes for personal gains such as a government mansion in Colombo. Such betrayals have left a lasting scar on the Tamil community, eroding trust in leadership.
A Reflection on Legacy
While it is customary to mourn the death of a public figure, as Tamils, we cannot grieve Manmohan Singh’s passing with the same sentiment reserved for those who truly championed justice and Tamil rights. His inaction and complicity during pivotal moments of Tamil suffering remain an indelible stain on his legacy.
Let this moment serve as a reminder of the resilience of the Tamil people. Our struggle for justice and sovereignty persists, undeterred by the indifference or betrayal of leaders like Manmohan Singh and Sampanthan.
“May God save the Tamils from their suffering in their own land, granting them the freedom and sovereignty they long for.”
Thank you,
Tamil Diaspora News
December 28, 2024
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