Page 1
HE DIARY O THE TAMIL
MOVEMENT
.

UNIT
aken by Sot Sinnathamby
silinio karo BORIS POR
Frate RSS

Page 2

TRINCOMALEE
ni Leitere

Page 3

The Diary
THE TAMIL UNIVERSITY
MOVEMENT
as kept by Prof. A. Sinnathamby L. M. S. (Cey.)., F. R. C. S. (Edin.). F. R. C. S. (Eng).,
F. R. C. O. Q. (Gt. Br.)., Hon. D. Sc. (Jaffna }.

Page 4

A Note From The Publisher
The following pages contain a record of the activities of a movement that came into being in 1956 and its struggles to achieve its objectives. Though much of its objectives have been achieved by the creation of a University at Jaffna and a University Collcge at Batticaloa (that is about to come into being shortly) yet its hopes of giving an education suited to the environmental needs and cultural background of the people remain yet to be attained. This is also in consonance with the wishes of the late Sir P. Ramanathan as evidenced by his trust deed,
The Tamil University Movement stood for a fullfledged University in Jaffna providing education against a background of Tamil culture, a university College in Batticaloa, a Faculty of Engineering at Trincomalee and a Faculty Agriculture at Vavuniya. The Faculty of Engineering at Trincomalee and the Faculty of Agriculture at Vavuniya yet remain to be realized.
Grateful thanks of the Tamil University Movement and the general public are due to Emeritus Professor A. Sinnathamby, L. M. S. (Cey.) F. R. C. S. (Edin.) F. R. C. S. (Eng) F. R7 c. O. G. (Gt. Brt.), (Hon.) D. Sc. (Jafīna) for the painstaking care with which he has kept the diary and for making the manuscripts available for publication.
The Printers Messrs Eelanadu and Kalapilaya Atchaham, its directors Mr. K. C. Thangarajah and Mr. B. Sivananthan deserve a special word of thanks for coming forward to print this. diary. Despite losses suffered by the printers and personal injuries sustained by Mr. B. Sivananthan during the June dis** bance in Jaffna in which the manuscripts were nearly destros
Mr. B. Sivananthan and his staff worked tirelessly to compien this publication begun a year ago.
| Finally the publisher wishes to apologize for errors and omissions, overlooked or crept in during the course of printing that came to be spread over an year for various reasons. The appendices mentioned in the text bave not been printed separately at the end as intended earlier. Most of the material contained in them have been incorporated into the text.
No. 3, Second Lane, Brown Road, Jaffna. 14 August 1981:
P. Ganesaretnam.
Publisher.

Page 5

The Diary
THE TAMIL UNIVERSITY
MOVEMENT
as kept by Prof. A. Sinnathamby L. M. S. (Cey.)., F. R. C. S. (Edin.)., F. R. C, S. (Eng.).,
F. R. C. O, G. (Gt. Br.)., (Hon.) D. Sc. (Jaffna).
Introduction:
“THE WORLD OF LEARNING” (1) which provides the most comprehensive possible information about educational, scientific, and cultural organisations in every part of the world, in its 1960 edition carries the information that the NAVALAR HALL, COLOMBO was founded in 1957 as the first Tamil University in Ceylon. This institution founded by the Tamil University Movement (T. U. M.) was the 'embryo' of the future Tamil University. The University of London approved it as a School for Higher Studies. In this institution, courses were offered in Chemistry, Physics, Botany Zoology, Pure and Applied Mathematics, and also in subjects, for the Arts Examination, thus serving the needs of the Pre Medical, Pure Science, Agricultural students and Arts students seeking entrance to the University of Ceylon. Courses were also offered in Accountancy and Engineering for the London Examinations. At the practical School of Agriculture established by the T. U. M. at Trincomalee, lectures in practical lessons in Agriculture and

Page 6
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
Veterinary Science were offered. The Movement also appointed a Tamil Pulavar to prepare students for higher studies in Tamil. The courses in Agriculture and Veterinary Sciences were meant for the ordinary students who wished to take up Agriculture and Animal Husbandry. Plans were drawn up for the establishment of a College for Science and Arts, a
Medical School, a Schocl of Architecture, and a school for training teachers - all these schools were to be sited in Jaffna, Colleges for Engineering and Agriculture were to be sited at Trincomalee.
In fact, it was the intention of the T. U. M. to found a Regional University to concentrate on the special problems confronting the Tamil - Speaking regions. The medium of instruction would be Tamil as for as practicable. The objects of the movement had the whole - hearted support of the Tamil speaking people.. Unfortunately, it had not the support of the successive governments of Ceylon. Repressive laws were introduced to prevent the setting up of a private University of London. Consequently, the Navalar Hall had to be closed, and the ambitious programme of the T. U. M. had to be suspended. The architects of this movement were men
with a spirit of dedicated service, possessing high intellectual talents, They were thoroughly frustrated and a good number of them have left the shores of Sri Lanka. They became assets to other countries and are doing a unique service for their development.
II. Higher Education of the Tamils in the past
A University College for Ceylon affiliated to the University of London was set up in 1921. This was as a result of persistent agitation by the Ceylon University Association under the chairmanship of Sir Ponnampalam Arunachalam. The next mile-stone in establishing a University in Ceylon was a resolution passed by the Legislative Council of Ceylon on 9th March, 1928, after prolonged and stormy debates. That Legiskative Council resolved:

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
That it is the opinion of the Council (1) that the proposed University shall be unitary and residential (2) shall be established in Kandy on site scheme depicted on plan scheme No. 3 attached to Sessional Paper XXVIII of 1927 (3) that the Government shall appoint a Commission to work out the details of the proposed University to be established as recommended above.
To give effect to the desire of the Council, the then Governor of Ceylon, Sir H. J. Stanley appointed a Commission on July 4th, 1928 under the chairmanship of Sir
Walter Robert Buchanan Riddell Baronet. This body was to prepare a complete and detailed scheme for the establishment of the University of the type stated and on the site already selected. In 1925 or so the academic committee of the Council of the then University College and the Principal of the College, Professor R. Mars had studied this problem and at the request of the College Council Professor Mars made a draft of an Ordinance for the establishment of a unitary residential University in Colombo. This had been submitted to the Advisory Committee set up by the University of Oxford. This draft was approved in general by the Oxford Committee. The section in the draft which allowed the association or recognition of other institutions appears to have been deleted for some reason or other, and the rest of the draft was made the basis for discussion. The report was submitted to the Governor on 27th November 1928. In the draft Ordinance submitted, it was agreed that the seat of the University shall be in Kandy, and that the Chancellor, the Pro- Chancellor, and Vice Chancellor of the University, the members of the Court, the Council and the Senate shall be a corporation with continuance for ever under the style and name of • University of Ceylon''.
The Commissioners, a good number of them, submitted their dissents and notes on something or other, but the dissent submitted by Sir Ponnampalam Ramanathan deserves special study.
He stated in his dissent that:
The majority of the Commission gave an utterly wrong

Page 7
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
interpretation of the term “unitary and that the University proposed by them cannot be considerd unitary at all. Only Prof Mars had understood the true nature of a University.
He stated further:
Proceeding from the nature of the University to its name, I beg to point out that the majority of the Commission claim for the Kandy University a jurisdiction which covers the whole of Ceylon. When I suggested that the University should be named as “Kandy University'' because the reference to us was to establish a University in Kandy, my suggestion was unheeded. I know of no unitary University which seeks to serve an area of 25,000 square miles with diverse groups of inhabitants, diverse industries, and diverse interests. Nor do I know of any unitary University in the British Empire taking a name other than the name of the city or the district where the headquarters are located.
Further in para: 59 he stated:
That by giving the so-called unitary University in Kandy the name "University of Ceylon'' the majority of the Commission manifest their desire to secure for that University a monopoly of all higher education in the Island for all time. Nothing can prove more disastrous for the future progress of the country intellectually, politically than to give one institution the sole right to control the quality and character of higher education all over the country. Education is not a subject that should be cast into a rigid mould. Its matter and
method have varied in different generations and in different areas. One set of ideas and practices bas often given place to other sets.
In the process of years, the Northern and Western parts of Ceylon will each need a University for the benefit of the peoples based upon matters and methods other than those insisted upon by foreign educationalists and the University must be associated with

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
the name of the town or district in which they will be located. Even so the University which is to be established in the town of Kandy should be called the University of Kandy, its territorial jurisdiction be limited to a circumference of 10 miles from its centre: it is to be allowed to have in Colombo or elsewhere associated colleges until such time as they are affiliated with or incorporated into a separate University. And the University of Kandy, is not to be allowed to have for all time a constituent college at Colombo - 70 miles distant from its seat this being ultravires to the true significance of the unitary University,
Subsequent events and developments relating the University of Ceylon show how true were the above prophetic statement
made by Sir Ponnampalam Ramanathan.
It is interesting to read the notes of Mr. W. A. de Silva made in this connection. He stated that:
The recommendation in page 34 para 4, on the question of titles to be given to the different Halls though a very minor point, suggests an existence of an unwarranted apprehension as if the public men of the country would in the naming of Halls emphasise communal and religious differences. There is no evidence to suspect that those entrusted with the government of the Univerity will be tainted with the communal and religious prejudices. The recommendation appears to be an unfortunate one.
After the departure of Sir Ivor Jennings, the government of the University passed into the hands of the Ceylonese. Many prudent men were of opinion that from this period, the University administration became tainted with communalism and religious colouring.
This background knowledge of the setting up of the first Unversity of Ceylon is necessary to understand the subsequent general and higher educational policy of the

Page 8
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
Ceylon Government after the demise of the Rt. Honourable Mr. D. S. Senanayake, the first Prime minister who took on the reins of the Government in 1947 on behalf of all the people inbabiting Ceylon.
The course that the Higher Educational policy took in the hands of his successors is a story of recent times, and the full wave of this policy has not reached its crest.
To quote Professor A. W. Mylvaganam:
“The Tamil - speaking peoples were content to look to the University of Ceylon for the satisfaction of their cultural and educational aspirations till 1947. It was a National University of the Ceylon peoples set up by the joint actions of all the races that inhabit Ceylon. It was open to all persons of either sex and of whatever race, creed, or class, and -no test of religious belief or profession shall be adopted or be imposed in order to entitle any person to be admitted as a teacher or a student of the University or to hold any appointment therein other than that of a warden of a Hall. After 1964‘ the admission to the University
was made on on the results of G. C. E. (A. L.) and the eduction in the university was in the English medium, and the public administration was in English. The granting of Independence to Ceylon in 1947 changed the political climate in Ceylon so as to create fears in the minds of the Tamil speaking people as to their cultural, educational economical and political future. '
But statements made by the Honourable Mr. D. S. Senanayake assured the Tamil - speaking people that the trust placed on him and the Sinalese people will be honoured; that the different Communities were all jointly building up a Ceylonese Nation of equals with legitimate rights.

The background of the Educational policy
of the Government.
As early as May, 1944, the then State Council, passed a resolution by an overwhelming majority that steps should be taken to effect the transition from English to Sinhalese and Tamil with the object of making both these languages the Official Language of the Country. A
Select Committee worked out a programme to give effect to this resolution. In 1947 after the Soulbury Constitution was accepted, most of the Ministers and other prominent citizens under the leadership of the late Honourable Mr. D. S, Senanayake formed a new Party. On assuming the Premiership he said:
* I have undertaken today a Government of all the people, for all the people, by all the people. One of the cardinal principles of the party was egual rights. equal opportunities, of all the citizens of the country regardless of caste, creed, and language.
In 1949, in the Memorandum to the Minister of Education, he mentioned:
"Nor again it should be forgotten that our essential task is to create a nation and that our people speak not one, language, but two or perhaps three. The language distinction should continue so that the nation does not lose our cultural heritage and not to create communal distinction in spheres where they are irrelevant.'"
In 1951. this United National Party set up an Official Language Commission on the basis that Sinhalese and Tamil would be the official languages. This Commission issued its final report in 1953 containing the "plans for the quickest possible adoption of such of the proposals of 1946 as are capable of facilitating the transition from English to - Sinhalese and Tamil as official languages of Ceylon without sacrificing the efficiency of its administration."

Page 9
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
In October 1953, another Commission to report on Higher Education in the national languages (Sinhalese and Tamil) was appointed with the Chairman who presided over the previous one. His Excellency the Governor had also sent a communication. His Excellency said:
••You are no doubt aware that it is the accepted policy of the Government that Sinhalese and Tamil should be the Official Languages of this country and any examination of this policy would be contrary to the terms of reference."
The report of the Commission consisted of a majority report (the Chairman and the other three Sinhalese members) and a minority report signed by three others of the minority communities. The majority submitted a report on the basis that Sinhalese should be the official language and further more the projection of the Swabasha into higher levels demands that Sinhalese and Tamil medium Universities should be established so as provide University education in the ratio of 6 Sinhalese students to every Tamil student. The majoriiy also recommended that the University of Ceylon now functioning in Peredeniya and Colombo should be converted into a Sinhalese medium University with another University in Galle. They suggested that a separate Tamil medium University should be established in Jaffna or Batticaloa. But the then Prime Minister re - affirmcd that the policy of the Government was that Sinhalese and Tamil should be the official languages, The Lanka Sama Samaja Party and the Ceylon Communist Party then supported the policy of parity for both languages.
The late Honourable Mr. S. W. R. D. Bandaranayake who was one of those who wanted equality of status for both the languages broke off from the United National Party in 1951 and immediately formed the Sri Lanka Freedom Party. In 1955, this Party at its annual conference resolved that Sinhala was the only Official Language and in 1956 after forming a coalition called the Mahajana Eksath Perumuna said that if he were returned to power, he would make Sinhala as the only Official Language, within 24hours

"The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
This perfidy had stirred the hearts of the Tamil speaking people to their depths. Fears, suspicions and apprehensions of the Tamil - speaking people were at its highest. University intellectuals, professional men, administrators, business - men, ordinary peasants and workers, all of them were aghast that this great tragedy was being enacted on them. University men who are normally very sensitive to injustice and to any oppressive policy as they realised the importance of the mother tongue of a people for their cultural autonomy and their education, both religious and technical. They immediately responded more or less as a nervous reflex action by issuing a statement that every child whose mother tongue is Tamil should have the right to pursue his or her primary, secondary and the University education up to the final stages in his or her own mother tongue, and this apprehended the Tamil people of Ceylon. The entire Tamil - speaking people were stirred to their depths at this great betrayal. Group discussions were held between various sections of the Tamil people, unconnected with politics on the future aspirations of the Tamils in matters of general education and higher education and on the preservation of their language, culture, and their religons. A full and considered study of the matter was carried out and it become clear that the only manner in which the cultural and linguistic identity of the Tamil-speaking people could be made secure was by the immediate establishment of a University for the Tamil - speaking peoples. The sponsors had realized that unless they took immeditate steps to preserve their language heritage and culture, they were in danger of not only losing their identity as a separate linguistic entity but also their continued existence as a self respecting peoples of this country. The sponsors gave effect to their considered opinion by launching the Tamil University Movement in June 29, 1956 at a time when fears. suspicions and apprehensions were at their highest.

Page 10
MEETINGS OF THE TAMIL UNIVERSITY
MOVEMENT Inaugural Meeting:
The inaugural meeting was held on June 29, 1956 at about 4.30 p. m. in Colombo. There was a gathering of about 150 people including a few ladies. This meeting was presided over by Professor K. Kanapathipillai. as pro. tem chairman. Then Sir Waithilingam Duraiswamy was elected as the President, and he took the chair. Dr. A. Sunderalingam was elected, as the pro - tem Secretary. The Secretary gave a short account of the events that led to this
meeting. The draft constitution of this Movement was laid before the house. The Movement was declared to be wholly non-political, and its objects were defined as (1) the establishment of a University for the Tamil - speaking peoples, (2) the preservation of the Tamil language and culture as an integral and autonomous part of the heritage of Ceylon, (3) the economic and social welfare of the Tamil – speaking peoples. The executive part of the movement was vested in a general council of thirty distinguished and trusted members of the Tamil - speaking peoples. Sir
W. Duraiswamy was the President of the Council, and there were seven Vice Presidents - men of distinction repesenting various sections of the Tamil - speaking peoples. The draft constitution was adopted, and the names of the other office - bearers and members are given in Appendix marked ‘A’. Sir W. Duraiswamy then addressed the meeting. These were his words:
e. I am glad that I am still with you all. I thought that I had retired from public life, but I find that there is no retirement for anyone. There is always something to do. I am not old (he was 82 years old at this time) but still young, and I am very happy that I was able to preside at this first meeting. I would advise you to work unitedly! unitedly!! Think about. our language and culture; and work with zeal and determination!

"The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
11
His last words were: “Gentlemen, work unitedly.” Professor A. W. Mylvaganam followed Sir. Duraiswamy, and spoke of the need and value of a University for us at that critical stage of our political life. Rev Father X. S. Thaninayagam followed this with a short speech in Tamil and English. Subsequently an office for the Tamil University Movement was opened by Sir Waithilingam Duraiswamy at
Ward Place, Colombo.
First Meeting of the Council.
The first meeting of the Council was held on 24th July, 1956. Prof. A. W. Mylvaganam was elected as the Chairman cf the Council. It was agreed at this meeting that the immediate task of the Council was also to publish the necessary literature regarding the objects of the Movement in Tamil and English for distribution to the people in all parts of the Island, and to launch a membership drive.
Second Meeting of the Council.
At the second meeting of the Council held on the 10th August, 1956, various committees were elected to further the objectives of the Movement: (a). A membership Committee, under the chairmanship of Mr. C. Balasingam. C. C. S., (b) A propaganda committee under the leadership of Mr. M. Thiruchelvam, Q. C., Prof: A. Sinnathamby, and Mr. R. Rajaratnam, (c) A Legal Committee to report on the Constitution with a view to incorporating certain amendments to it under the chairmanship of Mr. M. Thiruchelvam, Q. C. (d) committee under the chairmanship of Prof: C, J. Eliezer
was appointed with the following terms of reference (i) to study the final report of the Commission of Higher Education in the National Languages and report on the implications, (ii) to advise the Councll as to how and
when the Council or a delegation nominated by the Council should approach the Government regarding the establishment of a University for the Tamil - speaking peoples.

Page 11
12
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
The Meeting of the sub - committee under the Chairmanship of Prof. C. J. Eliezer.
The meeting of this sub-committee was held on August 14, 1956. Those present at this meeting were; Professorsi C. J. Eliezer (in the chair), A. W. Mylvaganam, A. Sinnathamby. T.K. Chanmugam, and Messrs. M.Thiruchelvam Q.C. R. R. Crosette Thambiah, Q. C., C. Balasingam,C. C. S. and Dr. A. Sunderalingam (General Secretary). The committee decided to consider in the first instance part (ii) of their terms of reference. It discussed whether it was advisable to abandon such undoubted rights we possessed at the existing University at Peradeniya and such other educational rights as may accrue to them by the establishment of University facilities in Colombo and elsewhere in Ceylon. It was agreed that while it was essential and fundamental to the T. U. M. which is now a merger of the Jaffna and Colombo T. U. M. that the nerve centre of the proposed Tamil University should be situated in the Tamil area, and that the Tamil - speaking people should not abandon the undoubted right as citizens of Ceylon to such University facilities as may be made available by the Government in every part of Ceylon.
The Committee was of the considered opinion that time was opportune to seek an early interview with the Prime Minster and the committee considered that at this inteview the followtng submissions should be made clear to the Prime Minister: (1) that there is need for more Universities in Ceylon, (2) that the Tamil - speaking peoples desire that a University should be established at an early date in the Tamil area to meet their needs, (3) that, therefore, they request the Government to establish a University which would meet the University requirements of the Tamil - speaking peoples throughout Ceylon either by means of constituent colleges or other equivalent arrangement which would be under their control.

13
*The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
Second Meeting of the Council.
This meeting was held at the end of August, 1956 to review the progress made so far by the various committees appointed. It was reported that propaganda literature was distributed in Colombo, Jaffna, Batticaloa and other Tamil areas explaining the reasons why this movement was started vide Appendix marked B''. Membership campaign was succssful and that at that time over 500 members were enrolled. It was also decided at this meeting that the objectives of the Movement should be amended as follows: (1) advancement of education and knowledge. (2) the establishment of the University for the Tamil - speaking peoples and that in pursuance of the objective of that University a draft memorandum should be prepared. A sub - committee for this purpose was appointed under the chairmanship of Prof: A. W. Mylvaganam.
"Third Meeting of the Council:
The third meeting of the Council was held on 5th September, 1956. Prof: A. W. Mylvaganam on behalf of the Memorandum Committee mentioned that a draft memorandum was in the course of preparation and that it would be circulated early The Council desired that the final draft should be circulated to all the Council members for their observations and amendments. Mr. C. Balasingam proposed that the membership drive might be intensified and that a list of
membors in Colombo and outstations might be prepared.
Fourth Meeting of the Council:
The fourth meeting of the Council was held on 4th October, 1956. The work of the various committee was reviewed. Good progress was made in the membership drive. The expansion of membership by starting the drive for associated members was discussed and it was agreed that tbis should wait till the enrolment of 1000 full members. The chief item discussed was about a memorandum to the Prime Minister. A draft memorandum was discussed in detail, and

Page 12
14
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
after certain amendments it was approved. It was agreed that this document as approved be sent to the Prime Minister requesting a date for a delegation to meet him and the Minister of Education. A copy of the letter to the Prime Minister was to be sent to the Minister of Education for his information. The Secretary was instructed to address each of the 21 members (vide Appendix C) and ascertain their willingness to serve on the delegation. Prof: A. W. Mylvaganam was unanimously elected as the spoksman of the delegation. The draft memorandum is shown in Appendix •D°
Fifth Meeting of the Council:
This was an emergency meeting held on 15th Qctober, 1956. Prof A. W. Mylvaganam explained that a report in the < Morning Times" of 13th October, 1956 indicated that the Minister of Education was anxious to offer a Tamil University and that he intended to discuss this subject with the Northern Province Principals Association on 18th October. and that action was taken by the General Secretary of the T. U. M. by addressing the Minister of Education regarding the Press report and informing him of the existence of a non - political group working for the establishment of a Tamil University. In that letter, he further informed that the T. U. M. had asked for a suitable date for a delegation of the T. U. M. to meet the Prinie Minister and the Minister of Education. In view of the intention of the
Minister of Education to discuss the subject of a Tamil University with the Northern Province Principals, we would like to be heard or be observers at the conference on 18th of October. Copies of the T. U. M's memorandum to the Prime Minister, the statement issued by the Council of the T. U. M., and the letter to the Prime Minister were enclosed in the letter addressed to the Minister of Education. The General Secretary further stated that the * Times of Ceylon'' had informed him that the Principals had at no time raised the matter of a Tamil University and the offer made by the Minister was on his own initiative in order to obtain concessions regarding the teaching of Sinhalese in Tamil Schools. According to a talk the

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
15
Secretary of the T. U. M. had with the Principals, it appeared that they would have an assurance from the Minister that the two streams of studies (Tamil and Sinhalese) will be maintained at the University at Peradeniya and if another University is to be established at Colombo and thereto. These aspects were discussed at length, and it
was finally agreed that the T. U. M. had only one objective that of the establishment of a Tamil University, and the question of the two streams of the Ceylon University would not come under the ambit of our objective. The Council agreed that they would restrict their discussions only on the subject of the establishment of a Tamil University, and that it would not express an opinion on the subject of two streams in the Universites in Colombo and Peradeniya There were, however, general support for the Principals asking for assurance and teaching in Tamil medium at Peradeniya and Colombo. In order to discuss some of the problems with "the Principals and to advise them of the views of the Council, the following members were appointed to meet the Principals and to discuss the matter:- Professors: C. K. Chanmugam, A. Sinnathanby and Messrs R. R. Thambiah.Q.C. and M. Thiruchelvam. If a reply was received from the Minister of Education to our letter to him, another delgation was appointed to meet him. The former body met the Principals and the views of the Council were placed before them. There were frank exchanges of views. The meeting with the Minister of Education did not take place.
The sixth Council Meeting:
The sixth meeting of the Council was held on 7th November, 1956. The Chairman stated that a reply from Prime Minister was received to our letter requesting tho Prime Minister to meet a delegation of the Council, The Council authorised the Chairman to correspond with the Prime Minister, and press for an early date for the delegation to meet him. Accordingly a letter was drafted by the Chairman, and it was approved by the Council. The Chairman then spoke on the action taken by the Minister

Page 13
16
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
of Finance to declare the Movemnet as an Approved Charity. The Minister had replied that this matter would be raised when the Trustees of the Movement have been incorporated. Mr. M. Thiruchelvam, Q. C. said that he would have a draft on the incorporation ready for consideration at the next meeting of the Council. As the Office work of the Movement was heavy, Mr. E. Rasiah former Assistant Secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs was requested to organize the office and run the Secretariat. The Propaganda committee said that the membership stood at 875 and that it was a fraction of the potential membership. In the opinion of this committee, the target of membership should be set at 5000(i. e. Rs. 10/-) and 10,000 for associated membership (at Rs. 5/-) per month. The Committee said that it should be supplemented by donations by the wealthy members of the community and by assistance from international associations.
It was decided by the Council that regional organizations be set up in the Northern and Eastern Provinces to propagate the Movement, to enrol members and to ensure that collections were regularly made and properly accounted for, a set of rules for organizing, collecting and accounting
was issued. Other matters relating to the Movement ineluding the suggestion for a Hall of Studies were to be taken up. at the next meeting in December, 1956.
Seventh Meeting of the Council:
The seventh meeting of the Council was held at Ward Place on the 5th December, 1956. The Council decided to find an alternate place for the Office of the T. U. M. The expenditure involved in maintaining Office at Ward Placewas high. At this meeting, Mr. M. Thiruchelvam, Q. C. explained to the Committee the desirability of gaining experience, both abministrative and technical by the commencement under the auspices of the Movement of evening ciasses in Colombo at undergraduate level. The matter was discussed with Senator S. Nadesan, Q. C. who expressed complete support for the project. The Council unanimously

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
17
supported the establishment of an institute and appointed a sub - committee to prepare in detail the courses, syllabuses and examine the supply of teachers necessary to run these evening classes. The sub - committee appointed comprised of the following members: Ptofessors: A. W. Mylvaganam, K. Kularatnam, P. K. Chanmugam, C. J. Eliezer, A. Kanapathipillai, and the following Queen's Counsels M. Thiruchelvam, C. Renganathan, R. R. Crosette Thambiyah. and Doctors of Philosophy; S. Gnanaliogam, A. Sunderalingam and Doctor of Medicine: W. D. Ratnavale and following gentlemen: Messrs: T. S. Muthulingasamy, M, Ramasamy V. V. Thambipillai, and M. Vyramuttu. Mr. M. Ramasamy was elected as Secretary and Convener. The Chairman (Prof. A. W. Mylvaganam) referred to a conference held at St. Patrick's College to consider the future of Higher Education of the Tamil - speaking peoples. As he did not attend it due to ill - health, he said that there were rumours to the effect that he did not support the establishment of a separate Tamil University. He said that the rumours were not correct as he had sent a telegram to the convenors of the conference as follows:
••Convalescing after long illness. Regret unable to attend. I strongly support the establishment of a University for Tamil - speaking peoples not inferior to that of Peradeniya.'"
The year 1956 ended with the Movement firmly resolving to set up a University for the Tamil - speaking people, and as a prelude they decided to start an Institute of Higher Studies, the germ of future Navalar Hall.
The Eighth Meeting of the Council:
The beginning of 1957, was an eventful year for the Movement, and Sir Waithilingam Duraiswamy continued to be the President, and Mr. C. Coomaraswamy, C. B. E, former Ceylon High Commissioner in India retired from the offee of a Vice President on account of ill - health. At this mee ing, the number of the Vice Presidents was increased to fifteen, and the number of members to the General Com

Page 14
18
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
mittee to fifty. Mr. T. Rajadurai, formerly of the Ceylon Civil Service became the General Secretary. Messrs: R. Rajaratnam, then Asst. Commissioner of Co-operative Societies
M. Ramasamy, Government Analyst were elected Assistant Secretaries. Mr. T. S. Muthulingasamy was elected the Treasurer, and Messrs; C Kandasamy and M. S. Devasagayam were elected as Assistant Treasurers. The names of the office - bearers from January; 1956 to February, 1957 are shown in Appendix marked E’. The Ninth Meeting of the Council: held on 9. 1. 1957
At this meeting it was decided to terminate the tenancy of the Ward Place office building and to make arrangements to hold the meetings at Saraswathy Hall, Bambalapitiya. The report of the sub - committee appointed for setting up of a new Hall of Studies was considered. The recommendation of the sub – commitee that the institution be named as Navalar Hall was accepted. After discussion, the Council agreed that admission to the Hall be opened to all persons irrespective of race or creed. The draft prospectus was placed before the Council and it was decided to discuss it at the next meeting. It was also decided to appoint an honorary Principal and two honorary Registrars to this institution. Mr. M. Ramsamy and Mr. C. Vanniasingham agreed to serve as honorary Registrars. The appointment of an honorary Principal was deferred. The Council decided to consider the proposal to start evening classes at undergraduate level The Legal Committee submitted an amended constitution providing for a Board of Trustees. The Treasurer said that the amount lying to the credit of the Movement was Rs. 32,495/59. Except for a sum of Rs. 1000/- no other money was withdrawn. There were 900 members in the Movement. Of these, 400 pay their subscriptions through the Bank. A sub - committee was appointed to devise ways and means of organizing collection of funds from members. The Tenth Meeting of the Council:
| This meeting took place on the 18th January, 1957. The Chairman (Prof. A. W. Mylvaganam) who led the delegation

The Diary of the Tamil Universty Movement
19
to meet the then Prime Minister Mr. S. W. R.D. Bandaranaike on the 14th January 1957 gave an exhaustive statement covering the discussions of the delegation.
The discussions with the Prime Minister:
In the course of the discussion, the deputation presented the case for the establishment of a University in the Tamilspeaking areas for Tamil - speaking peoples which would, besides carrying on the normal activities of a University help to preserve and foster their language and culture in Ceylon. At the conclusion of the discussion, the Prime Minister issued the following Press Communique:
*“A deputation consisting of Prof. A. W. Mylvaganam, Chairman of the Council of the Tamil University Movement, Mr. M. Thiruchelvam, Professors: P. K. Chanmugam, A. Sinnathamby, and K. Kanapathipillai, Miss S. Kasipillai, Dr. A. Sunderalingam (Secretary), had a discussion with the Prime Minister, and the Minister of Education on the establishment of a University for the Tamil-speaking people. The Official Language Commissioner was also present. Full discussion took place- (1) the deputation was informed that in keeping with the policy of the Government, educationally, the change-over at the Uniyersity of Ceylon from English to Swabasha would also include Tamil, (ii) it was indicated to the deputation that the Government could nrt, particularly at this stage view favourably the proposal to establish a separate full - fledged University, (iii) the deputation was asked to put up proposals for consideration, if they so desire, for the establishment of affiliated or constituent Colleges of the University of Ceylon with such faculties as they may consider desirable in such a College, (iv) in addition, if they so desire, the estasblishment of a linguistic and cultural Tamil University will also be considered."
At the request of one of the members, Prof. Mylvaganam explained briefly the scope and structure of constituent

Page 15
20
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
colleges, affiliated colleges, and discussed about their merits and demerits. The Chairman, then, referred to the agreed communique issued at the end of the discussion between the delegation and the Prime Minister and suggested that the Council in principle prepare proposals for constituent colleges. The following were appointed to serve on the Committee to prepare the draft proposals: Messrs: S. Rasanayagam, M. Thirucheivam, Dr. K. Kularatnam, Profs. P. K. Chanmugam, A. Sinnathamby, A. W. Mylvaganam to form the Committee. At this stage, Mr. C. Renganathan, Q. C. objected to any proposal being submitted as the object of the Movement was the establishment of the University, and not a Constituent College. He requested as this was a matter of policy Council should give further consideration before making a decision. He stated that he himself was not clear in his mind how a constituent college differed from an affiliated college and suggested that Prof. A. W. Mylvaganam explains to the Council at its next meeting the scope, functions and nature of a constituent college. It was agreed that this would form the major item on the agenda of the next meeting of the Council that would be held on 30th January, 1957. It was decided that the agenda for the forthcoming General Meeting to be held at the Saiva Mangayar Kalagam on February 9, 1957 would be (i) Minutes of the second General Meeting held on 26th August, 1956 (ii) Statement of Prof. Mylvaganam regarding the discussion of our delegation with the Hon’ble the Prime Minister, (iii) the adoption of the Constitution as amended, incorporating a Board of Trustees, (iv) Mr. M. Thiruchelvam to discuss the need for the establishment of an institute in Colombo to prepare students for the higher examinations of the University of London, (V) Treasurer's statement of Account.
In the meantime, Prof. Mylvaganam had done a thorough study of various universities, and their set-up. He had also written to Sir Ivor Jennings, the former Vice Chancellor of the University of Ceylon to get an authoritative opinion on unitary universitios, affiliating universities, federal universities and other matters relating to the Universities in general.

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
| 21
Sir Ivor Jennings was then the new Master, Trinity Hall, Cambridge. The letter written by Prof. Mylvaganam on the 21st January, 1957 was directed to Rome where Sir Ivor was holidaying. Sir Ivor's reply dated 28th February, 1957 was a masterly exposition of the set - up of universities, affiliated universities and federal universites. It was very interesting and thought - provoking. Typed copies were circulated to all members of the Council (vide Appendix 'F').
The Eleventh Meeting of the Council:
This meeting was held on 6th February, 1957 with Prof. Mylvaganam in the chair. The chairman gave a short talk on the functions and nature of Universities and referred in particular to natioal universities, regional universities, unitary universities, and federal universities. He mentioned the Madras University as both constituent and affiliated colleges. He then discussed in detail the set up and scope of constituent colleges and affiliated colleges. He concluded with the statement that our request should be for a constituent college with all faculties considered necessary as this should be a major step in the establishment of a separate university. It was suggested that the Council should place before a general meeting the proposals regarding constituent colleges and obtain the approval of the general body before submission to the Government. The suggestion that such a proposal be placed before the meeting convened for February 9, 1957 was objected on the following grounds:
(a) that adequate notice of a resolution cannot be
given before 8th February,
(b) that the Council has insufficient time to consider
the proposals and examine the merits and the implications of the proposals which might be construed as compromising with our main objective that of the establishment of a separate University for Tamil-speaking peoples.
It was unanimously agreed that the chairman makes a statement regarding the discussions between our delegation

Page 16
22
The Diary of the Tamil Universi! I'm
and the Prime Minister, and also explain the functions and scope of constituent colleges and inform members that a resolution embodying the proposals of the Council would be placed before them at a general meeting for consideration and approval before submission to the Government.
Most members of the Council were of opinion that while insisting that a separate university is a fundamental right of the Tamil speaking people and the main object of the Movement, the Council should give further consideration to the suggestion made by the Prime Minister that we submit proposals for the establishment of a Constituent College with all the faculties considered necessary. Accordingly. at the General Meeting of the Movement held on 9th February 1957 at the Saiva Mangayar Kalagam Hall, Prof. Mylvaganam explained the various types of universities in the world and advised the members that the offer of a Constituent College by the Prime Minister could be considered as such an institution would have all the faculties of a university. After some discussion, it was agreed that the Council should place before the house at a subsequent meeting a report and a resolution on this matter for its consideration and approval. The proposal to establish an institution to be named Navalar Hall for providing courses of instruction leading to the degree examinations of the University of London was also approved. The objects of the Movement were redefined as follows:
(a) the establishment of a university for the Tamil
speaking peoples of Ceylon, and
(b) the advancement of the higher education of the
Tamil - speaking peoples in all its aspects.
The General Meeting voted Rs 5000/- towards preliminary expenses towards Navalar Hall. Certain other amendments were also passed, including ono on onlarging the membership of this Council from 30 to 50, members (vide Appendix 'G'). The Council felt that for more effective propaganda work, the members of the Council should tour the Tamil - speaking areas, and cnlist the support of the people in all walks

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
23
of life. It felt that the propaganda should be of the same magnitude as the one done by the Committee led by Prof. A. Sinnatamby, and Mr. M. Thiruchelvam when they toured the Jaffna District in December, 1956 and carried to the people of that Province the message of the Movement and its significance to the future well - being of the Tamilspeaking peoples. In this tour, regional committees were formed in various centres and propoganda meetings were held in various places assisted by other members of the Council, Mr. R. Rajaratnam, Prof. K. Kanapathipillai
Mr. C. Renganathan and others.
The Twelfth Meeting of the Council:
This meeting was held on 14th February, 1957 at the Saraswathy Hall with Prof. Mylvagapam in the Chair. The Chairman proposed that the Committee appointed at the 10th meeting of the Council held on January 18, 1957 to examine the joint communique issued by the Prime Minister and to formulate proposals regarding the establishment of constituent colleges in the Tamil - speaking areas be enlarged to include Prof. C. J. Eliezer, Prof. K. Kanapathipillai Dr. S. Gnanalingam, Mr. C. Renganathan and Mr. R. R. Crosette Thambyah. Prof. C. J. Eliezer was appointed the convener, and the Committee was given the power to co-opt others, if they were considered necessary. This Committee is to examine and report to the Council on the basis of the communique whether this Movement should only put forward proposals for the establishment of an independent university, although this was denied by the Prime Minister or put forward proposals for the establishment of a constituent college of the University of Ceylon. In the latter event, to prepare a detail report covering faculties considered necessary, the nature and composition of the organizational structure and the safe - guards necessary to maintain and further our own cultural needs. It was agreed that this Committee would meet on February 20, 1957. Mr. M. Ramasamy would act as Secretary of the Committee.
At this meeting, the following were elected Trustees of the Movement:-
unanimously

Page 17
24
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
The President of the Council (ex-officio) The Chairman of the Council,
Mr. V. Manickavasagar, Mr. C. Renganathan, Mr. C A. Britto Muttunayagam, Prof. P. K. Chanmugam, and Prof. A. Sinnathamby.
The Council took active steps to declare the movement as an approved charity, and there was a delay in getting the approval from the Ministry of Finance. It was decided to interview the Minister of Finance and get it expedited.
A discussion on the steps to be taken to establish and run the Navalar Hall at the Colombo (Ratmalana) Hindu College took place. The Chairman stated that there was whole-hearted support for the Navalar Hall venture among the Tamil speaking people. The Chairman and three other members in the space of a few hours visited ten homes and were able to collect Rs. 8,500/- and they were confident that the required amount for the Navalar Hall could be collected from the people. The selection of full time officers to hold the posts of Principal and Registrar was briefly discussed and the members were asked to suggest suitable persons willing to serve in an honorary capacity. It was also decided to open a No. 2 A/c. to take in the contribution now being received for the Navalar Hall expenses. There was a suggestion that the money required for the Navalar Hall could be easily collected in Malaya, but the Council, however, considered that we could first organize a collection in Ceylon. The University staff were to assist in this programme during the long vacation in March, and Prof. P. K. Chanmugam agreed to draw up a programme of visits to the Tamil - speaking areas in order to collect funds for the Movement and Navalar Hall.
The Thirteenth Meeting of the Council:
At the thirteenth meeting held at Saraswathy Hall on the 20th February, 1957, the Council gave much careful thought to the establishment of Navalar Hall. At this
meeting, the Council resolved that an Account be opened in the City Office Branch of the Bank of Ceylon styled “Tamil

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
25
University Movement Navalar Hall Account to be operated in the same manner as the Tamil University Movement Account" in the same Bank. As regard to expediting the action in declaring the Movement as Approved Charity, the Council requested Mr. C. Renganathan to meet the Minister of Finance. The Chairman informed the Council that the Colombo Hindu College Board had not officially considered our request for the use of the college premises for under - graduate classes but they expected a decision at their meeting on February 24th. The selection of a Principal for the Navalar Hall was considered. The Chairman said / that he had no one in view but he would like to state that the Principal should be a person who has (a) taught at University level, (b) should have organizing ability, (c) leadership, and (d) should be able to advise the students on academic and other matters. After considerable discussion, it was proposed that Mr. Manicka Iddaikadar should accept the post of honorary Principal. Mr. Iddaikadar asked for time to consider and undertook to inform the Council of his decision at the next meeting to be held on the 27th February: A sub-committee consisting of Messrs. S. Rajadurai, S. Muthulingasamy, C. Manicka Iddaikadar was appointed to ascertain the full-time clerical staff required - for the Navalar Hall and to make recommendations to the Council on cadre required to run the Navalar Hall.
The propaganda committee accompanied by a band of onthusiastic young men toured the Batticoloa District from February 24th to 26th 1957. Meetings were held at Kallaru, Kalmunai, Sammanthurai, Ninthavoor, Akkaraipattu, Pottuvil, Thirukovil, Karaitivu, Kalavanchikudi, Kattankudi, Batticaloa, Eravur, Kalikovil, Valaichonai and Oddumavadi. It was a very successful tour from the point of view of enlisting support for the Movement, and financial help for the proposed Navalar Hall.
The Fourteenth Meeting of the Council:
This meeting was held on the 27th February. 1957 at the Saraswathy Hall. The Chairman informed the Council

Page 18
26
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
that the Press attempted to publish an inaccurate version of the moeting held in Batticaloa on behalf of the Movement. He had corrected the misrepresentations, but in view of the damage that could be done to the Movement by such inaccuracies by the Press, he suggested that after all meetings held by the Movement, a Press release be made, preferably in writing, and all information to the Press in Colombo be released by the Chairman of the Council. The Secretary was requested to write to the Minister of Finance informing him of the names of the trustees cf the Movement, requesting early action to declare the Movement an Approved Charity. Further discussions took place about the Navalar Hall. The governing Board of the Colombo Hindu College had considered our request of the use of the building for evening classes, and had decided to offer the premises for this purpose. It was, however, necessary for our Committee to discuss the terms and conditions for the use of these buildings with the governing Board of the Hindu College.
The appointment of a Principal an item postponed the last meeting of the Council was considered. Mr. Iddaikadar stated that he had considered the offer made to him, but for official reasons could not accept the post of . Principal. He did, however, feel that he could accept the position provided it was designated "Chairman of Studies''. He also said that he served on several Committees for the promotion of industries and the development of agriculture, and he could only spare two evenings a week. Provided no other suitable person was found, he would accept, but he felt that a full-time principal should be found. A proposal by
Mr. V. Manickavasager that Sir Kandiah Vaithianathan be invited to be the honorary Principal met the full approval of the Council. A Committee consisting of the Chairman, Mr. V. Manickavasager, and Mr. S. Sittampalam was appointed to see Sir Kandiah and formally appraise him of the decision of the Council. It was agreed that in keeping with the policy that the Movement and its non - political character, it would be necessary for the Principal to keep out of politics during his tenure of office.. The Council proposed the following resolution?

Tht Diary of the Tamil Univesity Movement
27
*"This Council resolves to invite Sir Kandiab Vaithia
nathan to be temporary Principal of Navalar Hall for a three year term, with termination on either side by one academic year's notice.'?
Mr. C. Renganathan noted that the Constitution had to be amended to allow the honorary Principal to be ex - officio
member of the Council of the Tamil University Movement. and that certain other amendments were also necessary in view of the funds specially collected for the Navalar Hall.
The Fifteenth Meeting of the Council.
This meeting was held at Saraswathy Hall on 5th March, 1957. The Chairman read out the letter from Dr. A. Sunderalingam asking to be relieved of his duties as general secretary and also to resign from the membership of the Council for health reasons. The Council while accepting Dr. Sunderalingam's resignation from the post of general secretary, it recorded its appreciation of the services rendered to the movement by him and also wished him to continue to serve on the Council as a member. A three - member delegation consisting of Prof. Mylvaganam, Mr. Manickavasagar, and Mr. S. Sittampalam interviewed Sir. Kandiah. The delegation put forward the Council's terms and invited Sir. Kandiah Vaithianathan to accept the post of Principal of Navalar Hall. Sir. Kandiah intimated that he had no alignment with any political party. He would accept the Principalship of Navalar Hall for one year. Thereafter, if circumstances required it, he wished to be released from his duty at sbort notice - about three months. The Council approved his appointment and unanimously elected him to be a member of the Council. The Council further agreed that further discussion on the establishment of Navalar Hall be postponed until the next meeting when Sir. Kandiah Vaithianathan, the Principal would be present. Lt. Col: F. A. Rajasingham was unanimously appointed as the Registrar, Navalar Hall.
As the Colombo Hindu College Board had not informed of their views regarding the request for use of the college

Page 19
28:
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
premises for under - graduate classes, a sub-eommittee of thrco members Prof. C. J. Eliezer, Mr. M. Thiruchelvam, Mr. C. Renganathan were appointed to interview. Justice C. Naga-- lingam and discuss the issues involved. Mr. T. Rajadurai, retired Civil Servant had now joined the movement and taken the duties of the Hony - Secretary..
Special Meeting
At the Special meeting of the Council held on 25th March, 1957, the financial position of the Navalar Hall was taken up for discussion. It was suggested that the Finance Committee should meet and prepare a preliminary estimate of the cost of establishing Navalar Hall which should be tabled at the next meeting of the Council. It was agreed that a sum of Rs. 5000/- be transferred to Navalar Hall Account so as to meet incidental expenses. A new account with the Bank of Ceylon, Wellawatte was opened in the name of the Tamil University Movement to be operated by the Principal and the Registrar of Navalar Hall. The Council considered the renting out of a house at Ratmalana, to function as the Office of the Navalar Hall. as classes were to be held at the Colombo Hindu College. Terms of tena ncy. were also discussed.
Two assistant Treasurers were appointed to assist Mr. T. S. Muthulingasamy. They were Mr. T. Kandasamy, Engineer, Colombo Municipality, and Mr. E. S. Devasagayam.
Arrangements for the establishment of Navalar Hall
The Principal and the Registrar were actively engaged in working out the preliminaries connected with the opening of. the institution in June, 1957. The position of Navalar Hall, vis-a-vis the Tamil University Movement was discussed. It was agreed that there were misunderstandings about the movement in the public mind as a result of incorrect newspaper reports. It was decided to clear all these at a suitable opportunity. Steps were taken to write to the Minister of Finance regarding exemptions of donations to the T. U. M.

"The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
and the Navalar Hall? as it was a very urgent matter. The Treasurer's statement to the Council as regards the funds of the T. U. M. as at 31-03-1957 was as follows: Total receipts Rs. 51,882| -. Of this amount, the subscription from associated members amounted to Rs. 344|-; subscriptions through Bank amounted to Rs. 42,750|- whereas the direct payment was only Rs. 8788 /-. Payments regarding Bank charges was only Rs. 115/97. Cash in hand was only Rs. 918/-. The members on roll were over 10C0 full members, and about 50 associated members. As decided earlier, a campaign to enlist associated members would only be launched as soon as the full membership exceeded a thousand. A public meeting was held at the Saivamangayar Kalagam Hall on 5th April, 1957 to launch an associated membership campaign. It was successfully launched to a packed hall of Tamil - speaking citizens. Regional committees in all parts of the country were also informed about this drive.
The Council read with surprise a statement in the * Morning Times’ of the eleventh April, 1957, from
Mr. C. Nagalingam President Hindu Educational Society.
It was as follows that "neither Board (Hindu Educational Society) collectively nor any member individually has offered or given the slight indication to the group organising Navalar Hall that the use of the Hall would be allowed".
At an emergency meeting of the council of the T.U.M. held on 12-4-1957 at 70/2, Ward Place, Colombo under the Chairmanship of Prof. P. K. Chanmugam (1) to consider the statement issued to the press by Mr. C., Nagalingam regarding the use of the Colombo. Hindu College buildings at Ratmalana by Navalar Hall (2) and also to consider what action had to be taken to obtain alternate accomodation for Navalar Hall. At the request of the Council Mr. M. Thiruchelvam gave an account of the negotiations which the council of the movement had with Mr. C. Nagalingam regarding the use of the Hindu College buildings.
(Mr. C. Nagalingam Q. C. - Supreme Court Judge - later -acted for the Governor General. of Ceylon) Mr. M. Thiru

Page 20
30
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement chelvam explained in detail the various steps which had been taken by the delegation of the council which had met Mr. C. Nagalingam. He mentioned that on the first two meetings Mr. Nagalingam's attitude was quite friendly and he had indicated a willingness in principle to make the Colombo Hindu College buildings available for Nayalar Hall. In fact he had requested the delegation which met him to submit detailed proposals such as wiring the buildings, cost of employing watchers and laboratory assistants, responsibility for the custody of the laboratory equipment and similar matters. He further explained prior to the final meeting that Aide - de - memoire had been prepared by Sir Kanthiah Vaithianathan to serve as a basis of discussion with Mr. C. Nagalingam. He further explained that at the final meeting a few days earlier (4-4-57) Mr. C. Nagalingam much to the surprise of the delegation gave categorical refusal to the request for the use of the Hindu College premises.
Mr. M. Tiruchelvam then informed the members of the Council that the buildings of Stafford College situated at Maradana were likey to be available for the use of the Navalar Hall and that preliminary discussions had taken place with the owners and the president regarding (a) the posibility of Navalar Hall becoming the tenant from the first of May (b) purchasing of the furniture, office equipment and laboratory equipment now being used by Stafford College. He further stated that an outlay of capital of Rs. 25,000/- would be necessary to purchase the furniture, equipment fittings and Scientific equipment of Stafford College. Sir Kanthiah said that the monthly rental of the premises will be Rs. 600|- plus rates and repairs. Discussion took place on the first statement made by Mr. Tiruchelvam. Sir Kanthiah Vaithianathan and Prof. C. J. Eliezer made statements of the negotiation that had taken place with Mr. C. Nagalingam on this matter. The meeting expressed disappointment at the action taken by Mr. C. Nagalingam and decided that the following statement should be issued to the press. This Council of Tamil University Movement has read with surprise a statement in the press from Mr. C. Nagalingam president of the Hindu Educational Society regarding the use of the Hindu College building at Ratmalana for
Navalar Hall. The Council is writing to him on matters.

"The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
31
mentioned in the Statement. The Council regrets that the first information on the subject should have come to it through the press but feels in the national interest a public controversy should be avoided. This was proposed by Mr. R. R. Crosette Thambiah and seconded by Mr. M. Thiruchelvam. The house after discussion decided that the statement as prepared need not be amended. It was also agreed in the interest of the movement that a letter setting out the details of negotiations with the Hindu College Authorities should be prepared and sent to Mr. C. Nagalingam and copies of it should also be issued to the members of the Hindu College Board. A Committee wass appointed to draft the letter. Regarding the Stafford College purchase the council gave general authority to Sir Kanthiah Vaithianathan to negotiate with the proprietors of Stafford College and arrangements were to be made for the Navalar Hall to go into occupation of the premises by 1 st of May, 1957. It was resolved that the titles and other documents of Stafford College to be examined and legal opinion obtained from Mr. C. Renganathan and Mr. M. Thiruchelvm on the advisability and propriety of the T. U. M. becoming the tenant of the premises. Prolonged discussion took place at 70/2,
Ward Place between Mrs. Dr. Thenuwara, the owner of the premises, Sir Kanthiah Vaithianathan and Prof. A. Sinnathamby regarding various aspects of Stafford College. The lady was very keen to lease or rent out the premises. In the midst of finding alternate accomodation for the Navalar Hall, the main objective of founding a University was not lost sight of. A meeting of the Council was held at Saraswathy Hall, Bambalapitiya on 24-4-57 to consider the draft out line of a scheme prepared by the chairman and Prof. C. J. Eliezer for the establishment of a University for the Tamil speaking peoples of Ceylon. A copy of the Draft scheme had already been given to the members of the Council. The Chairman was very anxious that all the members of the Council examine the scheme critically so that the scheme should be finalised at this meeting. This was to be ratified at a a special general meeting of the movement to be summoned for the purpose. As soon as this had been done, a delega

Page 21
32
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement.
tion from the Council would meet the Prime minister and request for financial assistance for the Establishment of the University.
At this meeting which was held at the Colombo Hindu Hindu College Hall on the 24-4-57 as the Saraswathy Hall was not available. The various difficulties encountered by the members of the Council who were entrusted with the task of finding alternate accomodation for Navalar Hall were dlscussed. The legal position regarding Navalar Hall was explained in detail to the members of the Council by Mr. M. Thiruchelvam and Mr. C. Ranganathan who both became Queen's Counsels later, and after all the aspects of the matter were gone into, it was decided that matters be investigated further with the assistance of Mr. S. Vallipuram Proctor and the position reported to the Council at a meeting which would be convened very early.
The Chairman urged that the incorporation of Trustees. should be effected without any further delay. The secretary
was also requested to look out for a suitable place where the meetings of the Council could be held in future.
· At a special meetings of the council held at 70/2, Ward Place on 29-4-57 Prof. A. W. Mailvaganam read the report prepared by Mr. S. Vallipuram Proctor, regarding the legal positions of the premises now occupied by Stafford College, Colombo. A discussion ensued and the following resolution was passed ••The council gratefully accepts the offer
made by Prof. A. Sinnathamby and five others to place at. the disposal of Navalar Hall, the premises at No. 93, Stafford Place on monthly tenancy. Regarding the purchase of the furniture and other epuipment now at Stafford College which would be auctioned on 3-5-57, the council resolved unanimously to authorise Professor A. Sinnathamby and fiveothers to purchase whatever equipment they considered necessary for Navalar Hall and voted a sum of Rs. 5, 000/. for the purpose.
The council also resolved unanimously that the authorities of Navalar Hall be authorised to commence all courses for

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
33
the external examinations of the University of London as decided earlier except in those subjects, which involved practical work. The council further resolved that steps should be taken as early as possible to commence these courses also.
The secretary intimated the Council of the availability of a house at Vivekananda Avenue on a monthly tenancy of Rs. 300/- and the council resolved to take it on rent to use it as Office of the movement. It resolved that the rent for May for the house at Ratmalana be paid and discharge obtained from the contract of tenancy from Mr. M. Duraisingam. A committee consisting of Sir Kanthiah Vaithianathan, Professor A. Sinnathamby, Mr. T. Rajadurai,
Mr. C. Kandasamy, Dr. W. D. Ratnavale and Mr.E.A. Rajasingham was appointed to inspect the fittings and equipment of Stafford College Colombo to decide whether the whole or part of it should be purchased at the following Friday auctions. The Chairman on behalf of the Council thanked
Mr. S. Vallipuram Proctor for his legal advice and assistance rendered to the council in examining the legal position of the premises now occupied by Stafford College.
A special meeting was held at 70/2, Ward Place, Colombo on 29th of April, 1957 to consider the arrangements regarding the establishment of Navalar Hall and to consider the draft out line scheme prepared by Prof. A. W. Mylvaganam (after a study of University Organisations in various parts of the world) for the establishment of a University for the Tamil Speaking people, but as most of the time was taken up for discussing the arrangements for the establishment of Navalar Hall the draft out line was postponed for another day. At an emergency meeting of the council held on 6th of May at 70/2, Ward Place, the secretary explained the reasons for convening the Emergency acetings. He read the report prepared by the committee appointed by the council to inspect the fittings and equipment at Stafford College Colombo. Mr. M. Thiruchelvam then explained that it was not advisable for the movement to

Page 22
34
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
rent the premises of Stafford College Colombo, because of the serious difficulties that would arise on the payment of rent.
The council discussed the matter and resolved that the proposal to seek accomodation for the Navalar Hall at Stafford College be dropped. They also decided that immediate Steps be taken to find alternate accomodation for Navalar Hall. There was a storeyed house vacant at Turret Road. There were 3 flats at Alexandra Road, Wellawatte, belonging to Mr. A. Sankaraiyer vacant. There were offers made by individuals. Mr. R. R. Crosette Thambiah was asked to permit the house at Bullers Road to be used by the movement. Mr. S. Kadirgamer was requested to obtain Ratna Bawan at Ward Place forthe movement.
After brief discussion it was decided that if the house at Turret Road was available it should be taken. Failing that steps should be taken to rent out the flats at Alexandra Road, Wellawatte. The question of accepting tho generous offers made by Mr. R. R. Crosette Thambiah and
Mr. S. Kadirgamer were to be considered only if no other accomodation was available. All investigations and inquiries should be completed by the 8th of May so that the matter can be taken for final consideration on that day. At a special meeting held on 8-5-57 at 70/2, Ward Place tho chairman read the draft letter to Mr. C. Nagalingam. chairman of the Board of Governors for the Colombo
Hindu College, prepared by the special committee appointed for the purpose. It was on the lines of the previous statements made by the man who interviewed Justice C. Nagalingam on this matter. After making slight amendments the letter was approved and it was decided that the letter should be forwarded as early as possible.
The council then considered the letter prepared by Mr. M. Thiruchelvam to be addressed to the Minister of Justice requesting him to sanction the incorporation of the Trustees of the movement under the Trust Ordinance. The chairman raised the question as to whether liability of the

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
35
trustees in their personal capaity was limited or not and after some discussion it was decided to defer consideration of this matter for the next meeting. The consideration of the draft scheme for the proposed University for the Tamil speaking peoples was postponed for the next meeting as tht council has to consider and approve the site for Navalar Hall. It was told that the House at Turret Road was not available. After a short discussion on the talks that Mr. S. Sittampalam had with the owner of the premises, at Alexandra Road, Wellawatte, it was agreed that Sir Kanthiah Vaithianathan and Mr. S. Sittampalam should negotiate the rent and tenancy conditions with the owner. The council then passed the final resolution: (i) That all the three flats at the premises at Alexandra Road, Wellawatte belonging to Mr. Narasingham and others should be taken on lease for Navalar Hall and the principal and the academic committee should arrange for the opening of Navalar Hall as early as possible. (ii) That the Hony, Treasurer should transfer to the Navalar Hall working account besides the sum of Rs. 5, 000/- already paid as a grant from the University Movement funds, other monies said to be about Rs. 10,000/- so far collected for Navalar Hall.
The chairman then explained that he was not happy about opening Navalar Hall in the present financial position and suggested that every effort should be made to collect a sum of at least Rs. 50, 000/- as early as possible to enable the institution to function during the first year without financial embarrassment. There was then a general discussion in the course of which Sir Kanthiah Vaithianathan explained that as a sum of about Rs. 20, 000/- would be available within the current month and the balance to make up Rs. 50, 000/- in the course of the next few months there would be no embarrassment. Professor A. Sinnathamby and Mr. M. Thiruchelvam stated that they could give the assurance with confidence, and after a short discussion
Mr. T. S. Muthulingaswamy proposed that the following do form a committee with Professor A. Sinnathamby as chairman and convener to collect subscriptions for Navalar Hall:- Prof. A. Sinnathamby, Mr. M. Thiruchelvam and Mr. T. Rajadurai. This was seconded and passed unanimously.

Page 23
36
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
A meeting of the council of the T. U. M. was held on the 11th June, 1957 to consider (i) the draft scheme for proposed Tamil University prepared by Prof. A. W. Mylvaganam and Prof. C. J. Eliezer. (ii) arrangements for the annual general meeting of the movement to be held this
month.
Copy of the draft is as follows:
A University for the Tamil speaking
peoples of Ceylon
1 Objects of the University
To a. help preserve, foster and develop the Tamil
Language, Literature and Culture. b. Provide University education against a background
of Tamil Culture C.
advance and disseminate knowledge encourage the fine arts e.g. music, drama, painting
sculpture e. encourage the study of the great religions of the
world e. g. Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism,
Islam f. provide for the training of teachers g. encourage the application of knowledge for the
welfare of the nation.
2. Medium of Instruction at the University
Wherever possible the medium of instruction shall be Tamil. The University shall arrange by the training of University teachers, writing and translating books and by other possible means, for the progressive use of Tamil as the medium of instruction in the University. Courses of Instruction in English shall be provided for those who required.

"The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
3. Admission to the University
Undergraduate admission to the University shall be by means of an Entrance Examination at which Tamil and English shall be compulsory subjects. Subject to the above there shall be no disqualification on grounds of race, caste, religion or sex.
4. Type of University
The University shall have the power to affiliate Colleges and Institutions of Collegiate standing.
5. Structure of the University
The following Faculties or Sub - Faculties shall be established:- Arts, Science, Music, Agriculture and Veterinary Science, Engineering, Medicine Commerce, Law and Social Sciences. There shall also be within the University an Institute for the training of teachers.
6. Siting of the University
To utilise existing facilities and to give the Faculties the most advantageous location - the various Faculties
may be sited as follows: -
Faculties of Arts, Science, Religions. Commerce
- at Batticaloa (e. g. Vantaramulla School) Faculties of Law, Medicine, Music - at Jaffna Faculty of Engineering
- at Trincomallee Faculty of Agriculture & Veterinary - at Vavuniya Science
District Institute for the training of teachers - at Jaffna
7. Administration of the University
The principal authorities of the University shall be the Court, Council and Senate, and their powers and duties may be the same as prescribed by the Ordinance of the University of Ceylon. Membership of these

Page 24
38
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
authorities may be as in the University of Ceylon. Secondary Authorities shall be set up under statutes.. The main administration of th affairs of the groups of Faculties and Departments in the various centres will be by Deans appointed by Council. Each Faculty will have attached to it its office “as also its library.
8. The University need not be residential, students may
reside in Hostels or in approved lodging houses.
9. The various statutes, Acts and Regulations of tho
University of Ceylon may, subject to the above provisions and with any necessary modifications be taken over for the proposed University.
10. Finances of the University
The Court shall consider the University Budget prepared by Council, as is the practice at the University of Ceylon. The approved Budget shall be transmitted to the Minister of Education or in the alternative, if the Government sets up, as in other countries where there are more than one Uni versity, a University Grants Committee, the budget may be transmitted to this body after Court approval.
A General Meeting of th Movement was held at Ratna Bawan, Ward Place, Colombo on the 26th August 1936 to review the progress of the Movement and to incorporate certain ammendments to the Constiution. It was decided that the objects of the Movement should be amended as follows:
1. The advancement of education and knowledge
2. The establishment of a Universty for the Tamil speaking
peoples.
Several matters had engaged the attention of the Council during these months. One was a study of the implications of the Report of the Special Committee on Higher Education in the National Languages. Another was a proposal to request

"The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
39
the Government to establish a University for the Tamil speaking peoples of Ceylon. It was decided that a deputa-tion from the Council should meet the Prime Minister and discuss this matter with him. After some correspondence a deputation led by Prof. A. W. Mailvaganam met the Prime
Minister on the 14th Jaunary, 1957. In the course of the interview the deputation had with the Prime Minister and bis advisers it transpired that the Government had in vesw the grant of assistance for establishing a Cultural University for the Tamil speaking peoples. Prof. Mailvaganam explained to the Prime Minister that the Tamil speaking peoples would be satisfied with nothing short to a full-fledged University with all academic and professional faculties. The Prime Minister stated that he did not consider that a "separate University for the Tamil speaking peoples was feasible at that stage and after some discussion he agreed to consider proposals for establishing, in the Tamil speaking areas, a Constituent College of the University of Ceylon.
A special General Meeting of the movement was hold on the 9th February, 1957 at the Saiva Mangayar Kalagam Hall to consider the Prime Minister's offer of a Constituent College, to discuss the need for the establishment of an Instituto in Colombo to provide courses of study for the higher examinations of the University of London, and to approve certain amendments to the Constitution. Prof. Mailvaganam explained in great detail the various types of Universities in the world and advised the members that the offer for Constituent College by the Prime Minister should be considertd as such an institution would have all the faculties of a universty. After some discussion it was agreed that the Council should place before the house at a subsequent meeting a report and a resolution on this
matter for its consideration and approval. The proposal to establish an institution to be called Navalar Hall for providing courses of instruction leading to Degree examinations of the University of London was also approved. The objects of tho movement were re-defined as follows:-

Page 25
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
1. The establishment of a University for the Tamil speaking.
peoples of Ceylon. 2. The advancement of the higher education of the Tamil
speaking peoples in all its aspects.
Certain other amendments to the Constitution were also passed at this Meeting, including one enlarging the member ship of the Council from 30 to 50.
It had been felt for some time that for more effective propoganda work, members of the Council should tour the Tamil speaking areas and enlist the support of people from all walks of life. A Propaganda Committee led by Prof. A. Sinnathamby and Mr. M. Thiruchelvam toured the Jaffna District in December 1956 and carried to the people of this aera the message of the Movement and its deep significance to the future well being of the Tamil speaking peoples. Regional Committees were formed in various centres and propaganda meeting were held in several places.
The same Committee accompanied by a band of enthusiastic young men also toured the Batticaloa - District in February, 1957 and spent three days there. Meetings were held at over fourteen centres in all parts of the District, and the enthusiasm with which the Committee was received by all classes of people was proof of the understanding that the common man had of the vital need for a University that the Tamil speaking peoples could call their own. The Propaganda Committee has also visited the Trincomalee, Mannar and Vavuniya Districts during the past few months. Several meetings have been held in centres of Tamil speaking peoples outside the Northern and Eastern Provinces and there was not the slightest doubt that the Movement had gained tremendous momentum during the past twelve Months and derived its strength from the support it has received from all classes of the Tamil speaking peoples of Ceylon.
It was intended at the early stages of the Movement that a campaign for Associate Membership should be

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
41
launched as soon as the Full Membership exceeded a thousand, A largely attended public meeting was held on the 5th April, 1957 at the Saiva Mangayar Kalagam Hall to launch this campaign. The Movement has now on its roll a Full Membership of 567 and an Associate Membership of Regional Committee have also been formed in all parts of the Country.
The Council of the Movement has given much time and careful thought to the establishment of Navalar Hall and it was decided at the outset that the organisation and running of this Institution should be in experienced and capable hands and it was accordingly decided to invite Sir Kanthiah Vaithianathan to be the Honorary Principal and Lt. Col. E. A. Rajasingham to be the Honorary Registrar of this Institution. These gentlemen have willingly accepted the responsibilities of these posts and Academic and Finance Committees have been appointed by the Council to advise and assist them. The main difficulty has been in securing suitable accommodation for the Institution. It was originally hoped that the Colombo Hindu College would make available a portion of its buildings for Navalar Hall, but unfortunately this has not materialised and as a result the the opening of the Institution had to be deferred by a month. A large upstair house had been obtained at Alexandra Road, Wellawatteand it hoped to open the Institution within a few weeks. As laboratory equipment would take about three months to be purchased and installed, it had been decided for the present to teach only subjects not involving practical work. Science classes would be started as soon as laboratoty facilities were available.
In view of the large sum of money required for the establishment of Navalar Hall the members of the Council decided to obtain donations for this Institution from the more well - to - do members of the Tamil speaking community. The response has been very cncouraging and with a little more effort it is hoped to obtain the entire sum, estimated at about Rs. 60,000/- required to fully equip the Institution.

Page 26
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
The Council of the Movement had given much anxious consideration to examining various alternative proposals for the establishment of a University worthy of the Tamil speakpeoples of this country. The structure and the constitution of universities in various parts of the world had been intensively studied by a committee consisting of Prof. A. W. Mailvaganam and Prof. C. J. Eliezer and the draft outline of a scheme for our university will be presented today to the
members of the Movement for their consideration.
The immediate requirement was buildings, and the Council was of the opinion that the buildings of the Central College at Vantaramoolai which were only partially used, and the magnificient buildings at Fort Fredrick and Fort Ostenberg in Trincomalee recently vacated by the Royal Navy were eminently suited for our purposes. These buildings were large enough for the establishment of a university with accommodation for over 2,000 students. The cost of equipment though high is not prohibitive, and can be obtained and installed within a year. The material in the shape of students is also available. There as many as 2,000 Tamil speaking speaking students in the University at Peradeniya and over 2,000 students, mostly Tamil speaking, are now in the Universities in India. The recently expressed anxiety of the Government to conserve foreign exchange by limiting the outflow of students to foreign countries would result in many hundreds of Tamil speaking students seeking admission to their new University. It was hardly necessary to say that teachers among the Tamil speaking peoples were available for fully manning all the faculties of a first rate University.
The members of the Movement would therefore be happy to note that if Government assistance in a moderate measure was forthcoming, immediate steps could be taken for the establishment of a university for the Tamil speaking peoples of Ceylon, and that the portals of this Institution would be open for the admission of students in July 1958.
The Annual General Meeting was to be held on 30th June, 1957, A special meeting of the council of the T.U.M.
was held at 70/2, Ward Place, on 25th June, 1957.

- The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
43
A vote of condolance on the death of Mr. S. C. Samuel was passed in the usual manner. He was a tower of strength to the movement and was always available for his advice. Sir Kanthiah Vaithianathan explained the proposed terms of the lease bond which he stated had still not been finaliscd. The premises would be leased in the name of five members of the movement on their sole responsibility so far as the lease bond was concerned. They would hand over the building to the T. U. M. So that it could be used for the purpose in view namely the establishment of an institution to be called Navalar Hall for providing courses of study for the higher examinations of the University of London. It
was agreed that the T. U. M. should underwrite the leasees in regard to their liabilities under the lease bond and also provide the necessary funds for the running of the institution. Mr. M. Thiruchelvam stated that the five lessees would be Prof. A. Sinnathamby, Mr. R. R. Crosette - Thambiah, Mr. C. S. Barr Kumarakulasinghe, Sir Kanthiah Vaithianathan and Mr. N. Manicka Idaikkadar.
As regards the Navalar Hall, it was agreed that any increase in the items of expenditure could be met only after the approval of the council has been obtained but the principal was given authority to meet ay expenditure on one item out of savings from another item subject to the covering approval of the council being obtained at its next
meeting.
It was decided that the institution should be opened on 3rd July, 1957 and that a formal opening should be held before the end of the month. A committee consisting of Prof. A. Sinnathamby, Mr. R. Rajaratnam and Mr. T. Rajathurai, the indefatigable General Secretary, together with principal and Registrar of Navalar Hall was appointed to mako arrangements for this opening.

Page 27
Annual report of the General Secretary
The Tamil University movement was the outward expression of the deep desire of the Tamil speaking peoples of Ceylon to preserve, enrich and hand down to their posterity the language and the heritage which they have inherited from their fore fathers and which today are indispensable for their continued existence as a free and Independent people in this country.
The Movement may be said to have been born at 8-20 p.m. on the 9th June, 1956 when a group of distinguished Tamil speaking persons decided at an informal meeting held at 16, Bullers Lane, Colombo that the time had come to launch a Movement for the early establishment of a University for the Tamil speaking peoples of Ceylon. An inaugural meeting of the Movement was held on the 29th June, 1956 with Prof. K. Kanapathipillai in the chair, Sir Waithilingam Duraiswamy was elected President of the Movement, Dr. A. Sundralingam its General Secretary and Mr. T. S. Mutulingaswamy the Treasurer. A draft Constitution was adopted. The Movement was declared to be wholly non-political and its objects were defined as:
The establishment of a university for the Tamil speaking peoples of Ceylon, The preservation of the Tamil Language and culture as an integral and autonomous part of the heritage of Ceylon, The economic and social welfare of the Tamil speaking peoples.
3.
The executive part of the Movement was vested in a General Council, and the first meeting of the Council was held on the 24th July, 1956. Prof. A. W. Mylvaganam was by unanimous assent elected chairman of the council. The immediate task of the council was to publish the necessary literature required for propaganda purposes and to launch a campaign for membership. A statement on the

: * * * * * * *
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement. A
45
Tamil University Movement was prepared and widely distributed in all parts of the islandIt was gratifying to report that the membership campaign was very successful and by the end of August over 575 members were on the roll,
This Annual General Meeting which was presided by Prof. A. W. Mylvaganam. The General Secretary Mr. T. Rajadurai presented the report mentioned earlier.
A resolution requesting the government to establish for the Tamil speaking people in the Tamil speaking areas a university with power to affiliate professional faculties located in the areas where they would function most effectively" was proposed by Dr. A. Sinnathamby and it was adopted unanimously. The Tamil University Movement would study the proposals to be put up for the consideration of the Prime Minister. He also explained the reasons behind the proposal;
An amendment to the original constitution giving the legal sanction to the regional committees was also passed. Prof. A. W. Mailwaganam speaking from the chair said though the premier had earlier stated the setting up of a Tamil University was not feasible, the very fact that the movement had been listed as an approved charity showed that this conception was now in the realm of practical politics. Citing the example of the University of Ceylon where delay was caused unduly over the question as to where it should be sited he said that such a situation should not arise in connection with a Tamil University or be a
matter of dispute between the peoples of the Northern and Eastern provinces. He appealed to the members not to quarrel or raise a controversy over the siting, status, or. composition of the university. The Tamils had enough obstacles to overcome. He also appealed to the members to prevent a wedge between the Tamils of the Northern and Eastern provinces. He further said: heri i may x be faced =
with a point blank. refusal or , we may be asked to form a P. constitüëntor an affliated college. He said such an alterntaive would not be acceptable. Warning against a

Page 28
46
Tht Diary of the Tamil Univesity Movement
purely cultural university he stated, if we wanted the Tamil Language to prosper including Tamil Art, it needed a full fledged university.
Sir Waitilingam Duraisamy was re-elected president. The other office bearers were as follows: Vice presidents: Prof. A. W. Mailvaganam, Prof. C. J. Eliezer Prof. P. K. Chanmugam, Proef. K. Kanapathipillai, Prof. A. Sinnathamby, Mr. M. Tiruchelvam, Mr. C. C. A. Bitto Muthunayagam, Mr. R. R. Crosette Thambiah, Mr. M. M. L. Kariappa, Rev S. Kulendran, Dr. S. Subramaniam, Rev. Fr. X. A Thaninayagam, Mr. J. Thiagaraja, Mr. S. P. Vaitilingam. Gen. Secretary Mr. T. Rajadurai Asst. Secretaries Mr. M. Ramaswamy, Mr. R. Rajaratnam. Treasurer Mr. T. Muthulingasamy.
The first meeting of the newly elected council was held at Navalar Hall, 33, Alexandra Road. Wellawatte, Colombo on 10-7-57.
Prof. A. W. Mailvaganam was unanimously elected chairman of the council. The chairman drew the attention of the council that a constitution for Navalar Hall was essential and should be drawn up early. He suggested that a committee consisting of Mr. C. C. A. Britto Muthunayagam, Prof. A. Sinnathamby, Mr. M. Tiruchelvam. Mr. R. Rajaratnam Mr. T. Rajadurai and the principal and Registrar of Navalar Hall be appointed to draw up a Draft Constitution for the approval of the counci[.
It was decided that the Treasurer should present a statement of the expenditure at every meeting of the council. The election of members to the deputation to meet the Prime Minister was then taken up. It was agreed that in addition to the members of the deputation who met the Prime Minister on the 14th January, 1957 the following persons should also be added. Mr. J. Tyagaraja, Mr. C. C. A. Britto Muthunayagam, Prof. C. J. Eliezer and Sir Kanthiah Vaithianathan. It was also agreed that a letter should be addressed to the Prime Minister requesting him to receive the deputation at

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
an early date. The secretary then brought to the notice of the council that the office of the T. U. M. had been shifted to Navalar Hall and it had to be equipped. The council voted Rs. 2,500/- for this purpose and also requested the members to obtain gifts of office equipment to the movement.
The council authorised the chairman to have 10,000 copies of the articles written by him to the “Veerakesari’’ on the T. U. M. published as early as possible. It was decided that it would be best to have the leaflets printed at the «Veerakesario". Press.
The council also resolved that Prof. A. Sinnathamby, Mr. M. Tiruchelvam, Mr. R. Rajaratnam and Mr. T. Rajadurai should continue as members of the propaganda committee for the ensuing year. Sir Kanthiah Vaithianathan then made a statement on the progress made by the Navalar Hall.
The question of a crest for the T. U. M. was thon considered - a committee consisting of Prof. A. Sinnathamby Mr. S. Arumugam, Mr C. Rasiah. Sir Kanthiah Vaithianathan, Mr. T. Rajadurai to go into the matter on 17-7-57 The copy of the letter addressed by Prof. A. W. Mailvganam chairman of the council to the Prime Minister was circulated only to the members of the deputation with the request that its contents be kept confidential. The members of the deputation will be informed as soon as a date was given by the Prime Minister for an interview.

Page 29
: il y W. A ja *n 154 *d! its ::
Strictly Private and Confidential
33, Alexandra Road,
Colombo 6. 17 - 7 - 57.
Dear Prime Minister,
On January 14th, 1957 you were good enough to receive a deputation from the Tamil University Movement. In the course of the discussion the deputation presented a case for the establishment of a University in the Tamil speaking areas for the Tamil - speaking peoples which would. , besides carrying out the normal activities of an University, help to preserve and foster their language, Literature and Culture in Ceylon.
At the conclusion of our discussion you issued the following Press Communique:-
*A deputation consisting of:- Professor A. W. Mailvaganam, Chairman, Council of the
Tamil University Movement,
Mr. M. Thiruchelvam Professor P. K. Chanmugam Professor A. Sinnathamby Professor K. Kanapathipillai Miss. N, Kasipillai Dr. A. Sundaralingam, (Secretary) had a discussion with the Prime Minister and the Minister of Education on the establishment of a University for the Tamil speaking people. The Official Language Commissioner was also present.
A full discussion took place. 1. The deputation was informed that in keeping with the
policy of Government educationally, the change - over at the University of Ceylon from English to the Swabasha
would also include Tamil.

"The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
2. It was indicated to the deputation that the Government
could not, particularly at this stage, view favourably the proposal to establish a separate full-fledged Tamil
University.
The deputation was asked to put up proposals, for consideration if they so desire, for the estabtishment of affiliated or constituent colleges of the University of Ceylon, with such Faculties as they consider desirable
in such a College. 4. In addition, if they so desire, the establishment of a
linguistic and cultural Tamil University would also be considered:
The Tamil University Movement had given its most anxious consideration to the proposals contained in the Communique and had come to the conclusion that its objects cannot be secured by a constituent College of the present University of Ceylon or by a College affiliated to it and/or by a Cultural University. We, , therefore, submit for your consideration detailed proposals for the establishment ot a full fledged university for the Tamil speaking peoples. These proposals are contained in the annexure.
It was generally admitted that the resources of the existing University were inadequate to meet the increasing pressure for University education, and in this connection, it may be mentioned that the Commission for Higher Education in the National Languages had recommended the establishment of additional Universities. The movement felt that the establishment of such a University in the Tamil speaking areas may be regarded as a step in the direction of greater provision of facilities for Higher Education.
I sball, therefore, be glad if you will be good enough to receive at an early date a deputation from our Movement to discuss this question.
yours sincerely, Sgd. A. W. Mailveganam
Chairman of Council, Tamil University Movement.

Page 30
A University for the Tamil speaking peoples.
of Ceylon 1. Objects of University
To (a) preserve, foster and develop the Tamil Language,
Literature and Culture.
(b) provide University education against a background
of Tamil Culture.
(c) provide for Professional and Technological studies
(d) advance and disseminate knowledge.
(e)
encourage advancement of the fine arts of the
Tamil speaking peoples. (f) encourage the study of the great religions of
the world. e.g. Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam.
(g) provide for the training of teachers.
(h)
encourage the application of knowledge for the welfare of the nation.
2. Admission to the University
Undergraduate admission to the University shall be by moans of an Entrance Examination. There shall be no disqualification on grounds of race, caste, religion or sex.
Medium of Instruction at the University.
Wherever possible the medium of instruction shall be Tamil. The University shall arrange by the training of of University teachers, writing and translating books and by other possible means, for the progressive use of Tamil as the medium of instruction in the University Courses of instruction in English shall be provided for those who require it.

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
4. Type of University.
The University shall have the power to affiliate colleges and instructions of collegiate standing.
5.
Structure of the University. The following Faculties or Sub - Faculties shall be established:- Arts, Science, Music, Agriculture and Veterinary Science, Engineering, Medicine, Commerce, Law and Social Science. Thaere shall also be within the University an Institute for the Training of
Teachers.
6. Siting of the University.
To utilise existing facilites and to give the Faculties the most advantageous location the various Faculties may be sited as follows:- Faculties of Arts, Science, Religions, Commerce
- at Batticaloa
(e. g. Vantaramoolai School) Faculties of Law, Medicine. Music
- at Jaffna. Faculty of Engineering
- at Trincomalee. Faculty of Agriculture & Veterinary Science
- in Vavuniya District. Institute for the Training of Teachers - at Jaffna.
7. Admission of the University.
The principal authorities of the University shall be the Court, Council and Senate, and their powers and duties may be the same as prescribed by the Ordinance of the University of Ceylon. Membership of these authorities may be as in the the University of Ceylon. Secondary Authorities shall be set up under Statutes. The main administration of the affairs of the groups of Faculties and Departments in the various centres will be by Deans appointed by Council. Each Faculty will have its own Office and Library.

Page 31
52
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
8. The University need not be residential. The students
may reside in Hostels or in approved lodging houses.
The various Statutes, Acts and Regulations of the University of Ceylon may, subject to the above provisions and with any necessary modifications, be taken over for the proposed University.
10. Finances of the University.
The Court shall consider University Budget prepared by the Council, as is the practice at the University of Ceylon. The approved Budget shall be transmitted to the Minister of Education or in the alternative if the Government sets up, as in other countries where there are more than one University, a University Grants Committee, the Budget may be transmitted to this body after Court approval. Budget shall be transmitted to the minister of Education or in the alternative to the Govt. set up as in other countries where there are more than ono University grants committee. The budget may be transmitted to the body after court approval.
In August 1957 it was known that a university commission of enquiry was going to be set up soon. A sub committee was appointed to approach the politicians to press the Government for incluston of a member to represent the Tamil speaking peoples on it.
At the council meeting held on 11-9-57 at Navalar Hall, it was reported that the above sub committee had not made any decision yet. Mr. M. Thiruchelvam a member of the committee mentioned that a well known politician on his own personal approach had said that he was prepared to take the matter to the prime minister provided the movement elected a suitable person for the representation. During the discussion followed it was considered whether to elect a panel of persons and to leave the Prime minister to choose the person or to elect one man only for the representation. At the end of the discussion the house decided to elect only one person. On Mr. Thirushelvam's suggestion

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
53
that Bishop Kulendran would be an ideal person, the house agreed to it and decided to get his consent to serve on the University commission of enquiry.
The question of a crest for the T.U.M. was then taken up: some crests of other institutions and also some designs suggested by the committee appointed for the purpose, with Prof. Sinnathamby as Chairman was passed among the members. The Council finally requested the committee to submit some designs incorporating the suggestions, at the next meeting of the council.
Mr. M. Vairavapillai, retired auditor general of the Government and a prominent Tamil leader of constructive thought who was present at the meeting was elected to represent the Colombo Regional body in the council.
The question of formal opening of the Navalar Hall was taken up. A committee consisting of the Secretary, Prof. A. Sinnathamby, Mr. M. Thiruchelvam, Sir Kanthiah Vaithianathan and Mr. E. A. Rajasinghim was appointed to consider and inform the council in what form it should be celebrated.
It was also decided to write and note the Prime Minister's attention for an early interview regarding the councils memorandum sent to him on the question of a University for the Tamil speaking peoples.
The chairman read a letter from Mr. S. Kandiah regarding the writing of a history of the Tamil speaking peoples of Ceylon. Mr. S. Kandiah was prominent loyal worker from Kandy who had helped the cause of Tamil Education in the central province and also a keen worker, of the T. U. M. It was decided to acknowledge the receipt of his letter and to inform him that the matter would be taken up soon after Father Thaninayagam's return to Ceylon. Every one agreed that the history of Ceylonis being distorted deliberately by writers of Text Books, and by unscientific amateur distortions. The question of import of chemicals for Navalar Hall free of customs charges was considered and the neces

Page 32
54
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
sary enquiries were to be made. On Mr. M. Vairavapillai's (Chairman, Colombo Regional body) enquiry whether tho Council would give any directive in framing the rules for the Regional body as to how they should function. The chairman told that he could frame it with the members of the Colombo Regional body and send one copy of it to the Council.
On the 19th, 20th and 21st of September 1957, the members of the propaganda committee visited the following places in the Eastern parts of the Island.
19-9-57 - Manampity. They met all the elders and influential people of this ancient Tamil Village and addressed them. A small committee was set up to organise a Regional body to propagate the movement. The committee promised to meet them again in the course of the month.
Valaichchenai. The University movement workers were seen by us. At the moment there was one Regional Body for Eravur and Korale Pattu. They impressed on us the necessity to set up a separate Regional Body for the Korale Pattu. Their work was closely examined by us. Their difficulties were looked into and the necessary advice given. They were requested to create a separate Regional Body for the Koralai Pattu.
Batticaloa: We met the Batticaloa Regional Body at the home of Mr. K. V. M. Subramaniam one of the Council members. A very good and representative gathering was present. The work so far done in the district was discussed and arrangements were made to collect funds for Navalar
Hall on Saturday.
20-9-57 Ninthavur: We met the workers of the T. U. M. and others and arrangements were made to collect funds for Navalar Hall on the following day.
Pottuvil: We collected Rupees Five hundred from the members of the movement.

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
55
Akkaraipattu: We met the Regional Body. Their various problems were discussed. The necessity of enrolling new members was made known to those present and arrangements were made to collect funds at Akkaraipattu on the following day.
21-9-57: Collected Rs. 1,000/- in the morning at Akkaraipattu and another sum of Rs. 1,000/- at Ninthavur. We met Mr. Ethirmanasingham M. P. for Paddiruppu and discussed with him the necessity of organising the movement in his area. He made a very generous donation of Rs. 1,000/- for Navalar Hall.
Sambanthurai: We met the Regional body and steps were taken to enrol more members. Mr. Mirza one of the
members of the Council took great interest on to proper functioning of the body,
Batticaloa: Conducted a collection move at Batticaloa and a sum of Rs. 2,250/- was collected within a few hours.
Total collections for Navalar Hall Rs. 4,750/-
Total subscribed but not collected Rs. 2,450/- This propaganda drive under the leadership of Mr. R. Rajaratnam, Mr. M. Thiruchelvan and Prof.A. Sinnathamby and
Mr. Saravanamuttu was on the same pattern as those that were done at Trincomalee, Jaffna, Kandy and other parts of the Island with many other senior members of the council included. Quite typical of the speeches made by the members of the movement were following extracts
made at a meeting at Batticaloa.
If we succeeded in establishing a Tamil University, it would be the first University in the East that was established without the assistance of the Government and without the help of millionaire philanthropists. This will be one that is established with the financial aid of the ordinary common people.
If there were rich philanthropists, people like Sir Raja Annamalai Chettiar, Dr. Alagappa Chettiar in Ceylon, this

Page 33
56
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
Tamil University would already have been established. The future of the coming generations of young Tamils and their independance would have been safeguarded.
This Tamil University Movement and its futuro depended entirely on the support of the ordinary Tamil man and woman and not on to support of the Tamil vested interests or on the support of the ‘hostile’ Sinhalese Government. The present Government would not give any financialaid to the movement. The ordinary man and woman should regard it as their movement and extend their financial aid however small in amount it would be.
The deputation of the Tamil Universty with Prof. A. W. Mailvaganam as chairman met the Prime Minister on 18-9-57 at 9 a.m. The other members of the deputation were
Mr. C. A. Brito Muthunayagam retired principal of the Law College, Mr. J. Tyagarajah, Sir Kanthiah Vaithianathan, Principal of Navalar Hall, Mr. M. Thiruchelvam Deputy Soliciter General, Prof. P. K. Chanmugam, Prof.C.J. Eliezer, Prof. K. Kanapathipillai, Prof. A. Sinnathamby, Mr. T. Rajathurai, General Secretary of the movemenr.
With the Prime Minister were associated the Minister of Education Hon. Mr. W. Dahanayake and the special Commissioner for Official Languages Mr. L. J. de. Seneviratne. The deputation met the Prime Minister to ask for the immediate establishment of a University for the Tamil speaking people of Ceylon in the Tamil speaking areas on the lines of a memorandum which the movement had sent to the Prime Minister earlier.
This was the united demand of the entire Tamil speaking people of Ceylon. There were no signs of any disrupting force from our people anywhere in the horizon.
The Prime Minister enquired from Prof. Mailvaganam whether the needs of the Tamil speaking people of Ceylon in so far as they are related to higher education would not be adequately met by the provision of a trilingual stream in the University of Ceylon. He emphasised that it

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
57
was desirable in the interests of national unity that there should be one institution open to young people seeking higher education; so that they could meet and understand cach other. Prof. Mailvaganam replied that the educational set up in Ceylon was such that at a very early stage the children at school were segregated into three linguistic groups and that bringing them together at the university level would not serve any useful purpose. He furher added that having regard to the circumstances that the Sinhalese Language was the sole official language in Ceylon, the academic and the cultural atmosphere in the University of Ceylon would be more favourable to the majority community.
It was further pointed out that the Tamil University movement was of the view that the needs of the Tamil speaking people of Ceylon for higher eduation could only be properly met by a University of their own and over whose destiny, they had full control and where their young men and women would work in an atmosphere free from inhibitions and complexes.
The Prime Minister was of the view that a separate University for the Tamil speaking peoples would encourage separatist tendencies. The deputation countered his argument by refering to Belgium where under a unitary Government there was the University of Ghent for the Flemish linguistic
minority and the Laval University of Quebec in Canada for the French linquistic minority. Reference was also made to similar Universities in Switzerland and South Africa. It was also stressed that only by recognising the interests of diverse elements could the unity of a nation be properly secured.
Prof. Mailvaganam referred to the Final Report of the Commission on higher education in the National Language where it was suggested that the pattern of University Education should be such that provision for Higher Education should be in the ratio, one Tamil to six Sinhalese, and asked the Prime Minister whether he supported this view.

Page 34
58
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
The Prime Minister said he was unaware of such a recommendation and emphasized that in so far as he was concerned admission to the University must be on merit alone.
"After further discussion the Prime Minister said that although he appreciated the point of view put forward by the deputation he preferred not to make up his mind until he had a proper picture of the pattern of Education in Ceylon and added that the University Commission which would be appointed shortly would have among its terms of reference the examination of the pattern of University Education in Ceylon, present and future. He suggested that the Tamil University movement could if it so desired make representations to the Commission on the need for a separate
University for the Tamil speaking peoples of Ceylon'
(Extract from the Morning Times: Page 1, 19-9-57)
The Evening Times of Ceylon 18-9-1957 stated steps had already been taken to invite distinguished men of Education from the United Kingdom and India to serve on this University Commission. Prof. Joseph Needham F. R. S. of the Cambridge University had informed the Ceylon High Commissioner in U. K. that he was prepared to accept an invitation from the Ceylon Govt. to serve as Chairman of the proposed Commission. He did not expect any extra remuneration provided the Cambridge University paid his Salary for the period he would be in Ceylon working in the Commission. He would accept the appointment here for a period of three months and was prepared to come over here towards the end of Feb. 1958. His wife who was also an F. R. S. would accompany him and would be of assistance to him in his work on the Commission. The preliminary work on the Commission could commence even before his arrival. He was at present engaged in compiling • The Encyelopaedia of Chinese civilization. The Ceylon Government should extend an invitation to him.
The Minister of Education Mr. W. Dahanayake after discussing the matter with the Prime Minister would cable a formal invitation to the Professor.

"The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
59
No person had still been selected from India. Mr. C. Deshmuk former Indian Finance Minister and Chairman of the University grats Committee was suggested by the Minister of Education as the second member of the commission. He was not available Dr. Lakshmana Mudaliar the Vice - Chanceller of the Madras University whom the government had in mind, also was not available.
After this information was received Mr. Dahanayake decided to invite Prof. S. K. Chatterjee, former Chairman of the Bengal Legislative Council, Professor of English at the Calcutta University, author of • The origin and development of the Bengali Language ' to serve as the second member of the Commission. The commissioner would consider and make recommendation among other matters on 1. Aims and objects of a University in Ceylon.
3.
2. The maintenance of a high standard of teaching and
examination | Provisions for advanced study in Agriculture, Commerce,
National culture, History, Literature, Language Philosophy, Religion and Fine Arts. Organisations of research work, branches of knowledge and co-ordination thereof with the work of other organisations.
5. Religions Instruction
6. Medium of Instruction.
7. Was there a need to set up Universities in Ceylon on
a regional or linguistic basis? 8. Co-relations of University educational policy with that
of the pre-university stages. 9. Discipline of students, administration of hostels, organi
sation of tutorial work, award of scholarships and allied matters.

Page 35
60
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
10, Granting of External degrees and other matters relating
to post-graduate scholarship.
There was no information as yet of various other terms. of reference which were to be informed later and also about the number of members in the commission.
The next monthly meeting of the council of the movement was held on 1st Oct. 1957.
On the question of a crest for the movement, Professor Sinnathamby stated that he had written about the matter to some artists in Batticaloa and Jaffna and had no reply.
He would see that the designs were submitted early.
On the question of the formal opening of the Hall, Mr. M. Thiruchelvam who was appointed to report on the matter said that the committee had discussed the matter and decided to recommend to the council that a distinguished Tamil from India should be invited to open the institution. After discussion, the council decided to invite either Sir Lakshmanasamy Mudaliar or Dr. K. S. Krishnan F. R. S. The council also decided that it would be appropriate to have a dinner in honour of the guest on the night of the opening day. The council discussed the matter. It was inally decided to invite Sir Lakshmanasamy Mudaliar as the Chief guest. If he was not available Dr. K. S. Krishnan should be invited. It was also agreed to have the opening by the early part of December 1957. The chairman wanted that these gentlemen should be contacted early by the committee and a suitable date obtained.
Mr. M. Thiruchelvam said that he had gone into the question of importing chemicals for Navalar Hall free of customs duty and said that it would be possible.
The chairman then gave an account of the interview which the deputation from the movement had with the Prime Minister. He ssid that the movement has been asked to wait until the recommendations of the University Commission. which would be appointed shortly were available.

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
61
Mr. M. Ramasamy said that before taking any further steps in that matter a mandate from the movement would have to be obtained at a special General Meeting. This was supported by Mr. T. Rajadurai, After a discussion the resolution was put to the vote and was dcfeated. Only 3 voted first.
A committee consisting of Mr. C. C. A. Britto Muthunayagam, Mr. M. Thiruchelvam, Prof P. K. Chanmugam and Mr. M. Manicka Idaikadar were elected to study the the terms of reference of the University Commission and to prepare a memorandum for submission to the Commission.
It was brought to the notice of the council that there legislation impending for the taxation of charity funds and that it would be better to appoint a committee to study the matter. The council agreed and appointed a committee consisting of Mr. S. Sivagurunathar C. Ranganathan and Mr. S. Ambalavanar to look into the matter and report on what should be done.
Mr. Manika Idaikkadar wished to know whether the Council would favour the collection of money for the Navalar Hall by holding concerts and dramatic performances. The chairman said that it would not be advisable to have such performances done and it was agreed to drop the matter.
The chairman then said that Father Thaninayagam had returned to Ceylon and action should be taken regarding the writing of the History of Ceylon. He also read the letter from Mr. S. Kandiah regarding the matter. After discussion the chairman suggested that a committee with power to coopt should be appointed. The following persons were nominajed - Mr. F. X. C. Nadarajah,
Mr. I. Arasaratnam, Mr. Ratnasabapathy, Mr. S. Sittampalam said that Mr. Jegapathy Naidu of Madras University had expressed once before his desire to help in the writing of the History of Ceylon by undertaking archaeological work and research in Ceylon. After consideration the Council decided to submit his name to the committee for consideration.

Page 36
62
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
. It was felt that more regular contributing members. could be made to join the T. U. M. from Jaffna Peninsula. There were the men from the public service, many from the teaching profession and the legal profession and men from the medical profession. The teaching profession consists of two main groups -(i) the University educated graduates from from the University of Ceylon or Ceylon University College or from British and Indian Universities. They had their education in the English medium. (ii) The highly educated Punditars, Viduvans aud others, were well educated in the Tamil medium. They were from the Annamalai University, from the Jaffna Oriental Society. There were a large number of lesser qualified teachers both in the English and Tamil medium. The Tamil medium teachers were in much large numbers and most of them were keen supporters of the Tamil University Movement. The latter too were also highly cultured and they understood that without the Tamil medium University, the Tamil Language cannot be developed and as a result the Tamil race would lose its identity and and heritage and economic prosperity. There was no fear of the Hindu culture or any other religious culture of the Tamil speaking peoples disappearing so long as the education of the younger generation was done in the back ground of their common Tamil culture and their respective religious cultures. These teachers were all government servants but there was one difference between these two groups. The former argued a lot but when it came to action they remained masterly inactive advancing some reason or other, for their inaction and when action was forced on them they slant towards the moves of the Sinhalese Government in power. It was believed that it was to make themselves secure and influential. Few of the teachers were active politicians. The Jaffna principals association and the Tamil teachers association were separate bodies They did not often unite themselves in action.
These factors privented the timid from activeiy associating with the T. U. M. Officers. They were afraid of opposing the policies and intentions of the Sinhala parties in power. These men adopted dilatory tactics and some even. obstructive tactics.

"The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
63
Most of the functioning Hindu religious societies in „Jaffna just exist in name only. They were out of touch
with realities and they really belong to an old era. They did not like to cause embarrassment to the government in power "They were not aware of the changes taking place in the
attitudes of the ordinary Tamil people.
We decided to appraise all such groups of the situation and earnestly appeal to these groups to identify themselves with the T.U.M. and add strength to it by joining the T.U.M. Certain dissident groups with no real following, were trying to obstruct the Tamil University Movement. These people had no ideas about the functions of a University, What they were hankering, after was a Hindu Cultural University. These groups tried to fall in line with the policies of the government and this was what the government wanted to put off the day for setting up a full fledged University.
Accordingly the Jaffna town regional committee of the "T. U. M. arranged a public meeting in Jaffna, under the chairmanship of Mr. P. Sriskandarajah District Judge on the 9 th October, 1957. The notice stated, Dear Sir,
As you are no doubt aware, a vigorous movement for the establishment of a Tamil University in Ceylon has now been in existence for a considerable time and the movement has had the enthusiastic support of all sections of the Tamil people.
2. At no time in the history of Tamils in Ceylon had the need of a Tamil University been more urgent than at the present time. It was therefore the sacred duty of all Tamils regardless of class, caste or creed to bestir themselves and contribute liberally to hasten the establishment of a Tamil University.
3. The Tamils in the public services and in the teaching profession are rightly regarded as highly educated and cul

Page 37
64
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
tured section of the community and we make this urgent appeal to you to identify yourselves with the Tamil University Movement and add strength to it by joining as regular contributing members.
4. With this object it is proposed to hold a public meeting at the Central College Hall on the 9th of Oct., 1957 at 5 p. m. Mr. P. Sriskandarajah District Judge Jaffna will preside.
5. We appeal to all public servants and teachers in Jaffna to be present at this meeting in full strength and lend their
unstinted support of this worthy Cause.
Jaffna 3rd October, 1957
Yours faithfully,
S. Kathiravelupillai Secretary. Jaffna Town Regional
Committee.
Speakers at this meeting will be members from the Council of the Tamil University Movement.
The Hall was fully packed with Principals of Colleges, Teachers, Lawyers and public men from the Jaffna Town,
At the end of our dialogues we had no reason to doubt that they were all with us in the movement.
The next meeting of the council of the Tamil University Movement was held on the 30th October, 1957.
The amendments to the constitution of Navalar Half were then considered. The chief amendment was as follows
‘Navalar Hall shall be a College established in Colombo by the Tamil University Movement for the Higher education of the Tamil speaking peoples of Ceylon. Its future will be determined when a University for the Tamil speaking peoples is established by the movement’, This was unanimously accepted.

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
Sir Kanthiah Vaithianathan then submitted the Statement of expenditure incurred on account of the Navalar Hall, and also moved that further sums are required for immediate committments, for importing laboratory apparatus, Chemicals etc. for Physics, Botany and Zoology up to the G. C, E. Advanced Level and that the total expenditure likely to be required up to the end of 1957 be revised to Rs. 75,000/-, The council passed the motion unanimously.
More money was required for library furniture and other apparatuses, which he would ask for at a later meeting, The Trincomalee Regional Body of the T. U. M. through Mr. R. Rajaratnam brought to the notice of the movement that the R. A. F. buildings at Trincomalee which were ideally suited for a large institution should be obtained from the government for the proposed university. After some discussion the consideration of the matter was postponed for the next meeting.
Prof. A. Sionathamby placed before the council -two designs that had been prepared as suitable for adoption as the crest of the movement. After examining the two designs it was decided to accept one of them. The Council wanted this to be suitably redrawn.
Floods. In December 1957, the country as a whole and mainly the Northern and Eastern provinces experienced heavy. incessant downpours, breeching of tanks and floods of great magnitude that the island had not experienced during the last 500 years or so (a period of history which has been scientifically documented).
There was complete disruption of the Regional Committees of the T. U. M. all over the island.
A meeting of the council of the T. U. M. was held on 11-12-57. The chief item in the agenda was (i) Discussion regarding the formal opening of Navalar Hall (ii) Agricultural and Engineering Colleges at Trincomalee. and these were postponed for the next mceting. A meeting of the Council of the T. U. M. was held on 9-1-58 at Navalar Hall.

Page 38
66
The Diary of the Tamil Univeresity Movement
As regards, the formal opening of Navalar Hall the chairman said that as decided earlier he had written to Dr. K. S. Krishnan and had received a reply expressing his pleasure in being able to attend the formal opening of "Navalar Hall in February. The chairman also announced that Dr. Krishnan had expressed his desire to have some literature about the movement. It was decided to send the booklet published by Prof. A. W. Mailvaganam together with the memorandum sent to the Prime Minister and the Booklet. containing the Office bearers of 1956 and 1957.
As regards the Registration of the movement a discussion took place as to register it under the societies ordinance or by inco-operation of Trustees or by legislation. After a lengthy discussion, it was decided to have the movement registered by legislation and the council elected a sub - committee consisting of Mr. M. Thiruchelvam, R. R. CrosetteThambiah Q. C. and "Mr. S. Namasivayam to prepare the draft bill. Treasurer's statement of accounts was as follows:- Total collection amounted to Rs. 131, 271.71 and the expenditure incurred so far amounted to Rs. 11,469.76. The statement was adopted unanimously.
The Asst. Treasurer C. Kandasamy stated in answer to a query, that there were many members whose subscriptions were in arrears. Reminders to those in arrears elicited a poor response.
The chairman asked the Treasurer to prepare a list of members whose subscriptions were in arrears. He also requested the Treasurer to prepare a list of the donors to Navalar Hall showing the amount subscribed, amount collected and the amount due.
A meeting of the Trustees was to be summoned soon The election of members to the Board of Governors and Academic Council of Navalar Hall was taken up. The following were elected unanimously to constitute the Board of Governors :-

The Diary of the Tamil University MSvement
His Lordship Rev. S. Kulendran Justice N. Sinnathamby
Mr. C. C. A. Britto-Muttunayagam Prof. C. J. Eliezer Prof. A. Sinnatamby
Mr. C. Rasiah
The principal of Navalar Hall by virtue of his office shall be the chairman and the registrar the secretary of the Board.
The following members of the council were unanimously elected to the academic council :-
Mr. M. Thiruchelvam Mr. G. R. B. Barr Kumarakulasinghe Prof. P. K. Chanmugam.
The principal of Navalar Hall shall be the chairman of the academic council and the registrar its Secretary.
In January 1958 a situation arose as a result of the Prime Minister recommending the name of Mr. L. J. de. S. Seneviratne to be included on the University Commission of enquiry as the third member. An emergency meeting of the council of the T. U. M met on 28-1-58 at Navalar Hall to discuss the situation and to decide on the steps the council should take to meet the situation effectively. The chairman Prof A. W. Mylvaganam said that Mr. Seneviratne was a
member of the commission on Higher Education in the national languages who had signed the report of the majority group where he advocated the policy that selection to the University Education should be based on the ratio of six Sinhalese speaking students to every Tamil speaking student. Besides this he was also the commissioner of the official language Department implementing the Sinhala only policy. He said that the inclusion of a person who had a prejudiced view and who had once before expressed definite views on some matters which are now the terms of reference of the pro

Page 39
68
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
posed commission, would not be in the best interests of the minorities and should be opposed strongly. The council diseussed the matter and decided to write to the Prime Minister expressing the counci's opposition to the inclusion of Mr. Seneviratne and its deep concern regarding the nonrepresentation of the minorities in the commission. It was also decided to send a copy of the letter to the minister of Education as well.
Mr. M. Tiruchelvam said that apart from writing to the Prime Minister the matter should be taken to the public immediately and a public meeting to be held on 5th February at the Vivekananda Society Hall. The agenda at the meeting shall be entitled ““ Demand for representation of the Tamil speaking peoples on the University Commission of Enquiry'
A sub-committee consisting of Mr. M. Thruchelvam, Prof.A.W. Mailyagapam and Prof. A.Sinnthamby was appointed to draft the letter to the Prime minister. The secretary was asked to make the necessary arrangements for the public meeting.
A meeting of the council was held on 5th February 1958 at Navalar Hall. The chairman stated that the letter drafted by the committee appointed by the council at the emergency meeting, had been dispatched to the Prime Minister. As no reply had been received to this lettter it was decided to send a reminder to the Prime Minister in a week's time.
As regards the formal opening of Navalar Hall no definite reply from Dr. K. S. Krishnan has been received.
Mr. E. A. Rajasingam, Registrar of Navalar Hall resigned from his post. He was thanked for the valuable services he had rendered.
The appointment of a new Registrar was then considered. The chairman said that it was a matter that should be gone into carefully and suggested that a temporary appoint-ment be made for the present. It was suggested that they have afull time Registrar. Sir Kanthiah Vaithianathan

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
69
stated that a final decision on this matter should be made only after examining the financial position of Navalar Hall. It was agreed that the vacancy be filled on a temporary basis for the present and a decision arrived at the next meeting of the counil. Mr. E. S. Devasagayam the assistant Treasurer of the movement was appointed Hony Registrar until the appointment of a permanent Registrar. S
‘The Engineering and Agricultural faculties at Trinco-malee' This item was taken up. The secretary informed that definite recommendations had been made by the Trincomalee regional committee to the council that the R.A.F. and Navy buildings vacated by the U. K. armed services
would be taken over from the government at an early date for the establishment of the Engineering and Agricultural faculties of the proposed Universiiy,
After a short discusion committee consisting of Mr. S. Arumugam and Mr. C. Rasiah was appointed to inspect the buildings and make a report to the council on their suitability for the purpose in view.
It was metioned that the draft bill for the Registration of the movement would take some time.
As regards the protest against the proposed appointment of Mr. L. J. de. S. Seneviratne to the University Commission, the chairman suggested that a public meeting to protest against his appointment was not advisable. The purpose of the meetings was to enlist the support of the Tamil speaking peoples for the demand to have one of their representatives on the proposed commission.
After a discussion it it was proposed that an Emergency General meeting of the movement should be held at the Navalar Hall on 23.2.58. This was accepted and it was also decided to have meetings of this natura in various parts of the Tamil speaking arcas as well.
A Russian Teachers delegation visited Navalar Hall and a dinner was held to honour them.

Page 40
10
The Diary of the Tamil University Movemen
On 10th March, 1958 a group of Tamil members of the parliament led by Mr S: J. V. Chelvanayakam told the Prime minister that Mr. L. J. de S. Seneviratne's views on educational subjects were very well known and there was the danger that it would bring a biased mind to bear on the deliberations of the commission. They desired that a change should be made and a Tamil educationist of standing should also be appointed.
The Prime Minister was not prepared to change the personal of the University commission He was bowever prepared to expand the terms of referenco and include any particular points which the Tamil members of parliament
wished to be inco-operared.
At the meeting held at Navalar Hall on the 12.3.58 the Assistant Treasurer Mr. E. S. Thevasagayam informed the counci that he had met Dr. K. S. Krishnan in Delhi and had discussions with him regarding the Tamil University Movement and the formal opening of the Navalar Hall. Dr. Krishnan had told him that he was only too glad to come over to Ceylon and asked for a date in April. It was decided to have the formal opening on 14th April 1958. A sub-committee consisting of Prof. A. Sinnathamby Sir Kanthiah Vaithianathan and Mr. M. Thiruchelvam was appointed to make the necessary arrangements. As Mr.C.Rasiah and Mr. S. Arumugam did not have the time to inspect the Naval and Air Force buildings at Trincomalee the discussion on the matter was postponed for the next meeting.
The report of the trustees of the movement was read by the Secretary and it was decided to invest Rs. 40,000/- in the savings account of the Bank of Ceylon.
The revised design of the crest of Navalar Hall was then examined. It was decided to have it coloured before finally approving it." Mr. S. Arumugam undertook to have this done and present it at the next meeting of the council.
A suggestion by Prof. A. Sinnathamby that a course in Architecture be or ganised at Navalar Hall with the view to

-"The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
presenting, students for professional examination was discussed. It was decided to forward the draft proposals to the Principal of Navalar Hall for reported
A letter from the Colombo Tamil Sangam suggesting that classes be conducted in Navalar Hall for preparing students for the Madras Oriental Title examination was then considered. The Principal of Navalar Hall was requested to examince these proposals and make his recommendation.
A sum of Rr. 8,000) - was granted to Navalar Hall -at Sir Kanthiah Vaitianathan's request - Mr. M. Vairavapillai, !Ex. acting auditor general of Ceylon was appointed to be 2the auditor.
The main business for the day namely the nature of the representations that should be made to the University Commission by the T. U. M. was taken up. It was brought to the notice of the council that a notification has been published in the Daily News of 12-3-58 by the secretary of she University Commission inviting the public to make
written representation on matters falling within one or all of the terms of reference of the commission. A questionaire relating to the terms of reference was available and all communications should de received before the 31st March1958.
After a short discussion it was decided that so far as the Tamil - Universtity Movement was concerned it was interested only in item 11 namely the medium of instruction in the University and in item 17 namely the need for other Universi
ties in Celylon on a regional, linguistic or other basis. - Io view of the short time available for the preprration of the memorndum it was decided to appoint immediately a sub - committee consisting of Prof. A. Sinnatamby,
Mrs. G. R. B. Barr kumarakulasinghe to examine the suitability of converting the Jaffna Hospital into a teaching hospital and to collect the necessary data for this purpose. (to answer questionaire 2c)
Mr. R. R. Crosette Thambiah undertook to collect the information regarding the educational traditions of the Tamil

Page 41
72
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
speaking peoples withe special reference to the tradition as regards educaion at the University level during the past 150 years. Mr. Crosette Thambiah stated that he would furnish the information in consultaion with Rev Fr. Thanina yagam and Prof. A. Sinnatamby.
It was also considered desirable that the draft memor andum to be presented to the University Commission should be prepared in the course of next week and discussed at a special meeting of the council. The broad outline of the proposed University for the Tamil speaking peoples hrd already been prepared by a sub - committee consisting of Prof. A. W. Mailvaganam, Prof. C. J. Eliezer and approved by the movement at its fiast annual general meeting held at Vivekananda Society Hall on 30-6-1957. It was now necessary to prepare the case to be placed before the commission for a University for Tamil speaking people in the Tamil speakig areas of Ceylon. A special meeting of the council was to be held on 22-3-1958 to discuss the draft memorandum. Messrs: S. Armugam and Mr. C. Rasiah were requested to present a report on the Naval and Air Force buildings at Trincomalee within a week.
It was also decided that the draft memorandum to be presented to the University Commission should be prepared in the course of the following week and discussed at a special meeting of the council. The broad outline of the proposed university for the Tamil speaking peoples had already been prepared by the sub-committee consisting of Prof. A.W. Mailvaganam and Prof. C. J. Eliezer and approved at the first Annual General Meeting on 30th March. It was now necessary to prepare the case to be placed before the commission for a university for the Tamil speaking peoples in the Tamil speaking areas of Ceylon.
In the meantimo, efforts were being made to purchase lands at Trincomalee for the Tamil University. A mecting of the Trustees of the movement was to be held on the 25th March to decido on the release of funds for the purchase of land at Trincomalee for the Tamil University.

"The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
A special meetting of the council of the T.U.M. was held on 22-3-58 with Mr. P: Sriskandarajah in the chair.
Mr. Tiruchęlvam stated that the meeting was called to sobtain the views of the members of the council on the
memorandum to be presented to the university commission. A general discussion then ensued. Mr. Tiruchelvam stated that the Tamils of Ceylon gave a distinct tradition and that this should be stated on the memorandum.
The report of the committee appointed to report on the suitability of converting the Jaffna Hospital into a teaching hospital was placed before the committee by Prof. A. Sinnathamby. After outlining the various faculties available there | he said that the hospital could be converted immediately ino a fully equipned medical tsachidy institution with an expenditure of about 5 lakhs of rupees. Mr. C. Rasiah reported on the suitability of converting the Naval and Air force buildings at Trinomalee into an Engineering College. He gave a detailed description of the buildings and said that the buildings at China Bay could be easily turned into a residential University for an Engineering faculty. However work shop facilities and equipment bill had to be provided. He further stated that the buildings at Fort Frederick were also available if required.
. The secretary then read the draft memorandum prepared by the drafting committee and after discussion it was decided that certain amendments were necessary and it should be referred to the committee for redrafting. Prof. K. Kanapatbi pillai and Prof. C. Kularatnam were also co-opted to the committee.
At the meeting of the council held on 27-3-58, the final draft memorandum submitted by the movement to the University Commisson was discussed and approved unanimously.
It was decided that the deputation of the movemens to "meet the University Commission should consist of the some
members of the deputation that. met the Prime Minister on the last occasion (18th Sep., 1957)

Page 42
74
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
At a meeting of council held on 9-4-58 the formal opening of the Navalar Hall was considered. As Dr.K.S. Krish nan had agreed to come on 14th of April 1958 and could be in Ceylon for only 3 days the elaborate programme thal had been planned had to be curtailed. As regards converting the Jaffna Hospital into a teaching hospital it was decided that a deputation interviews the Minister of Health.
The considertion of a draft scheme for the proposed school of Engineering to be established in Colombo in Oct. . 1958, was put off for the meeting to be held on the 12-4-58.
A special meeting was held on 12-4-58 to discuss the proposed establishment of a school of Engineering in Colombo. The chairman read a letter from Prof. R. H. Paul stating that the idea of establishing an Engineering college at present was premature and that setting up of such a school immediately would distract from the strength of the movement. Again at a special meeting held two days later on 14-4-58 to discuss the scheme, the chairman suggested that it would be better if details were not discussed and approval in principle for the establishment of a school of Engineering in Colombo in October, 1958 was sought. It was decided that Mr. S. Arumugam would propose the motion and explain the aims and objects of the proposed school and the financial implications. The draft proposal was discussed. After a long discussion it was decided to amend the first para as follows:
The proposal is to establish a School of Engineering at the suitable site in Colombo with a view to preparing students and Engineering apprentices in diplomas in Engincering issued by the College, the standard of which will conform to the requirements of the graduateship examination of the institutions of Civil, Mechanical and Electrical Engineers. London. It was also agreed that part II of the examination should extend over a period of seven terms, Part I-II thus taking a period of 12 terms in four years. After a discussion the draft proposal was accepted unanimously.

"The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
15
As the members generally felt that the facilities available at Navalar Hall-accomodation else-where was veryurgent and that a suitable building should be rented out or a semi permanent building erected early to house the school of EnginCering. It was pointed out that provision was not made for workshop facilities in the draft proposal, It was decided after long discussion to arrange with some engineering firms to obtain the necessary workshop facilties. The chairman also suggested that it would be advisable to include training in telecommunication engineering.
At about this period of time, a school of Technolgy had been started in Jaffna as a business effort by few rich gentlemen of Jaffna.
At the council meeting held on 18-4-58. Prof. A. W. Mail vaganam stated that the memorandum to the UniversityCommission had already been sent. Prof. C. J. Eliezer commenting on the memorandum said that it was well done. He regretted that be could not agree with the paragraph that dealt with the University of Peradeniya. He said that it should not be the policy of movement to 'renuonce the right the Tamil had to the University at Poradeniya but certain paragraphs in the memorandum gave that impression.
| Mr. M. Thiruchelvam stated that it was not their intention to renounce the rights on the Universities at Peradeniya or Colombo. The paragraphs referred to were intended to show that the opportunities at Peradeniya to preserve the rights of the Tamil people were less. The aspirations of the Tamil speaking peoples would be fully met by a separate University established for them. He added that the rights of Tamil peoples at Peradeniya University would have to be preserved by their elected represen-tatives.
The memorandum was a historical document.
The delegation from the movemement was to meet the commission the 22nd of April 1958. It was decided that Rev. Bishop S. Kulendran and Mr. V. Manickavasagar be included in the delegation. The chairman urged that there should be

Page 43
76
Tht Diary of the Tamil Univesity Movement
complete unanimity among the members of the deputation. Prof. A. W. Mailvaganam was elected the chief spokesman of the deputation and was empowered to direct the other members to reply Whenever necessary various questions which the commission might ask were discussed. As regards the adoptions of the coloured design of the crest of the movement which was circulated among the members it was agreed to have the design of the crest adopted at the general meeting. The committee appointed for the purpose of making arrangements for the opening of Navalar Hall had made the necessary arrangements.
The main item of the day namely the consideration of the draft scheme for the proposed school of Engineering to be established in Colombo. Mr. C. Kandasamy read the scheme prepared, Prof. R. H. Paul outlined the various difficulties that the school had to encounter in maintaining certain standards and obtaining recognition. The purpose of the instiution was amended to prepare students and engineering apprentices for diploma in Engineering issued by the college the standard of which would be equal to the standard of the Institues of Civil, Mechanical and Electrical Engineers London. After discussion the scheme was approved for presentation at the Special General meeting of the movement in 14th April 1958 The copies of the scheme are to be circulated among tho
members of the council.
The Tamil Vidwan courses of study are to be taken up for discussion at the next meeting.
The memorandum presented by the Tamil University Movement to the University Commission on the need for the establishment of a separate university for the Tamil speaking peoples of Ceylon is as follows:-

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
11
The Prime Minister has told us at our last conference with him on 18-9-57 that the he was appointing a University commission which would have among its terms of reference the examination of the future pattern of education in Ceylon and also requested us to present our case for a separate University for the Tamil speaking peoples of Ceylon. Yet in spite of this assurance to us his ministry of Education under Mr.
W. Dahanayake presented the Pirivena Universiti og bill on 19-11-57. It was mentioned that the bill which was in accordance with the Ceylon University acet, was designed to give University status to the Vidyalankara and Vidyodhaya Universities. Under the proposed legislation which was passed later the two universities, would be known as Vidyalankara Universitiy of Ceylon, and Vidyodaya University of Ceylon. The Heads of the two Pirivenas would become respectively the Vice Chancellors of the two Universities and after their terms of Office the most eminent and learned Bhikhus in Ceylon would be appointed as Vice Chancellors by the Minister.
Subjects of studies at the Pirivena Universitios
The two universities were empowered under the proposed law to confer any of the following degrees in five languages Sinhala, Sanskrit, Pali, Tamil or Hindi. The degrees were
1. Bachelor of Arts B. A., Bachelor of Arts Tripitake (B.A.T.), Master of Arts Tripitaka (M.A.T.), Doctor of Letters (D. L. I. T.) Doctor of Philosophy (D. P. H.) The two universities would provide for instructions in such branches of Arts and Sciences and learning for research and the advancement and dissemination of knowledge and for the promotion of Sinhala culture.
The two universities were to be set up soon and before the University Commission could begin its sittings: They were to be Sinhala cultural Universities.
The Prime Minister had told us in our last conference (18-9-57) that he was appointing a University Commission with Prof. Joseph Needham F. R. S. as chairman. It is sitting in
March 1958.
While the Tamil University movement was awaiting the setting up of this commission to present its case for a full

Page 44
78
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
fledged university for the Tamil speaking peoples, it was active in organising the skeleton ofthe future University. Namely the search for a suitable site for it at Trincomalee, the organising of the Departments of Arts and basic Sciences, the organisation of a school for Engineering, a school for Medicine, a school for Accountancy, a school for Agriculture, and a School for various other ancillary sutdies. Few of these were being organised at the movement’s Navalar Hall Institute of Higher studies» which had by now been approved as a college of Higher studies by the University of London. TUM'S Memorandum
* The memorandum submitted by the T. U. M. to the University Commission urged the immediate establishment of a University in Tamil speaking area for Tamil speaking people. It further said the Tamil speaking peoples were not anxious that the Government. should spend large sums of money in erecting buildings and equipping their university as has been dono at Peradeniya; The council was of the opinion that an initial outlay of about Rupees Five million would be necessary to start the University. It further stated that sufficient number of teachers were available among the Tamil speaking people to man immediatley all the faculties of a full fledged univer
sity. TUM'S Delegation Meeting the Commission
• The delegation comprising Prof. A. W. Mailvagaram Professor of Physics at the University of Ceylon. Prof. P. K. Chanmugam Professor of Anatomy, Prof. C. J. Eliezer. Professor of Mathematics, Prof. K. Kanapathipillai Professor of Tamil, Prof. A. Sinnathamby Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecalogy. Rt. Rev S. Kulendran Bishop of Jaffna of the church of South India, Mr. M. Tiruchelvam the acting Solicitor General, Mr. V. Manickavasagar District Judge Kandy, and Mr. M. Ramasamy Assistant Government Analyst met the University Commission on the 24th of April.
During the discussions Prof. Chatterjee one of the Commissioners asked:- Do you want to be isolated in this samll country? The Differing factors may be there but the factors of unity are also very important. Will you not ask for a National University without any communal or other distinctions?

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
79
Prof Mailvaganam’s rejoinder was Not so long as there is the Sinhala only act, It might be considered if both languages are given equal status. So long as the present situation exists, it is much better that at least for some time there are separate universities.
Bishop Kulendran said that the necessity for a separate university for the preservation or Tamil rights, arose from the fact the when the national government was in the hands of the majority community it would be possible for the nati onal government to strangulate a minority community.
Questioned by Professor Needham, whether a properly constituted national university would not suffice; Mr. Thiruchelvam said, that the question of a national university was a matter for the Government; They had not concerned themselves with the question of a national university in the face of the present forces that were afoot. They felt that a national university was a concern of others not themselves.
Asked by Professor Needham, whether such a Tamil University would be prepared to teach a minority of Sinhalese students in their own medium in some subject, Rev Kulendran replied that that was a hypothetical matter.
Prof. Mailvaganam said the proposed medium of instruction of the University would be Tamil but courses of instruction in other languages would be provided if the necessity arose.
Mr. Thiruchelvam said that the Tamils had asked for their own university was not to destroy national unity.
Mr Thiruchelvam A Sinhalese University has already been created in the pirivenas, Prof. Needham and Chatterjee said that that had not yet happened.
Prof. Mailvaganam said that with coming of students from Central Colleges, the Peradeniya University was going to be more and more Sinhalese.

Page 45
80
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
- Prof. Chatterjee-Is there a demand for separate provision for technical subjects? Prof. Mailvaganam said 'There are specific problems peculiar to the northern péninsula-Agricul tural, Colonisation, tapping of under ground water, study and utilisation of the palmyrah plant. All these call for a new system of Education in Tamil and for the writing of modern scientific text books in Tamil, similarly for the faculty of Engineering.
Prof. Chatterjee: You camhave an institute for research of the palmyrah plant and so on. Does it necessarily mean all that should be done by Tamil students and Tamil scholars, Prof. Mailvaganan said that unless there was purely scientific research at a national university - a doubtful situation-it is essential to have research in local subjects in the manner proposed.
Prof. Chatterjee: Such a university would be only for the Tamil area.
Mr. Tiruchelvam told the commissioners that our university would be recognised by British and Indian Universities.
It appeared Prof. Joseph Needham (Chairman) and Prof' G. C. Chatterjee (member) were not aware of the fact that the Government had established two pirivena Universities which
meant that the third member who was a Ceylonese who had a lot to do with the educational policy of the Government or the Government itself, had not intimated this information to the other two members of the commission. (Report of the commission in university of Ceylon. Sessional paper XXIII. 1959 Chapter IV. Page 240) The Tamil University Movement was of the firm opinion that both the pirivena ‘Universities'' were primarily cultural institutions to promote Sinhala – Buddhist culture but not universities in the real sense of the term: and it was for this reason that when Prime Minister Bandaranayake offered a cultural university.
We replied that we did not want it but instead asked for a full fledged Tamil medium University.
Formal Opening of the Navalar Hall by Dr. K. S. Krishnan F.R.S.
At a Special, general meeting of the Tamil University Movement held on 14-5-58. (1) a proposal for the opening

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
81
of a school of Engineering in Colombo in Oct. 1958. was discussed (2) **The formal opening of Navalar Hall by Sir K. S. Krishnam F. R. S. was also fixed for 6 p. m. on the same day. (14-5-58) As arranged earlier Sir K. S. Krishnan F. R. S. formally opened the Navalar Hall at 6. p. m. on 14-5-58 The Ceremony was a grand and dignifed one.
A council meeting was held on 7-6-1958. The chairman thanked the reception committee for the able manner in which the formal opening of Navalar Hall was arranged. Prof. Mailvaganam gave a resume of the discussion the deputation from the movement had with the Universities commission. He said there was a prolonged talk about national Universities with two streams. He then read a letter sent by him to Dr. Needham, chairman of the university commission, in answer to the question what will be the medium of communication between the members of the streams in a national University. The letter explained why neither English nor Tamil nor Sinhalese would serve as a medium of Communication between the members of the two streams.
As regards the details of the Engineering College a committee consisting of Mr. A. Ragunathan, Mr. J. V. Rasiah and Mr. C. Rasiah wore appointed to draw up details and present it to the council at its next meeting.
It was also agreed that portraits of the Tamil scholars, Thamótherampillai, Arumuganavalar Carrol. Viswanathapillai and Swami Vipulananthar should be hung at Navalar Hall.
The Treasurer stated that the collections up to March 1968 exclusive of all expenditures amounted Rs. 1,493,005-79 The chairman stated that no action had been taken on the recom
mendation of the Trustees regarding the investment of the funds of the T. U. M. and urged that immediate steps should be taken. Rs. 40,000/- was to be deposited in the saving accounts of the bank of Ceylon.
Mr. Tbriuchelvam was asked to report carly to the council regarding the registration of the movement.

Page 46
82
Tht Diary of the Tamil University Movement
At a meeting of the council held on 14-6-78 that becauso of the state Emergency in the country (due to the Sinhalese and Tamil Riots) it was unanimously decided to postpone the annual general meeting of the movement which constitutionally should have been held before the end of June. This decision was to be conveyed to the members through the press. The Treasurer brought to the notice of the movement that because of the sitnation in the country many receipt books which hed been distributed to various authorised repre sentatives and Regional bodies were not returned. After consideration Mr. Muttulingasamy and his assistants were asked to do their best to collect the books in Colombo and in the outstations.
Sir Kanthiah Vaitvianathan then said that he would reopen Navalar Hall on the 1st July if the curfew was lifted or relaxed. He further stated there were many difficulties in 'finding. "lecturers for the Degree coursses As regards the labo-, ratory equipment, he said that except for the Physics laboratory, others had enough equipment to meet the requirements of the degree courses.
A discussion then ensued on the question of providing facilities for higher studies for the large number of youths who were in Jaffnar Mr. M. Triuchelvam said that many youths found it difficult to pursue their higher studies as a result of the restrictions that were being enforced by the Dept. of Education on students who are going out to India for University Education, As such there was an immediate need for the establishment of an institution of higher studies in Jaffna to perpare students at least in subjects, that did not require parctical work.
Sir Vaithianathan said that some of the institutions in Jaffna had decided to commence courses in higher studies as such it would be better for the present, to wait and watch the proposal. After a long discussion it was decided to defer consideration of the matter.
The political turmoil as a result of the pronouncement on language, policy (August 1958) made recently by

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
83
the Prime Minister Hon Mr. S. W. R. D. Bandaranayake. resulted Riots and Emergency state. The Tamil teachers of the University of Ceylon issued a statement to the Tamil speaking peoples regarding their views on this important and vital
matter.
It was signed by the following professors and other Teachers:-
Prof. of Physics
, , Tamil
Prof. A. W. Mailvaganam
K. Kanapathipillai P. H. Paul C. J. Eliezer V. Sivalingam
K. Kularatnam Dr. A. Sathasivam
S. Vithiananthan Mr. T. Jeyaratnam
R. Appadurai Dr. T. Visvanathan
A. Sundaralingam
Electrical Engineering Mathematics. Parasitology
Geography Lecturer Department of Tamil
.,
>>
Asst. Lecturer in Economics
Agriculture. Lecturer in Obstetrics and Gyna Ast. Lecturer in Dental Surgery.
The statement was as follows:-
We have considered the pronouncemet made recently by the Prime Minister on the “Reasonable use of Tamil" and are not convinced that his four-point plan would promote the unity of the Nation. This could only be achieved by
making Tamil one of the official Languages of the country,
The four point plan of the Prime Minister contained nothing now. It embodied merely the assurances so often given by him since the introduction of the Sinhala only Bill.
It was silent on many points: one glaring omission was the question of the administration of justice, the conduct of public business and the maintenance of records in Courts, Kachcheries and other Government Departments in the Tamil speaking areas, in Tamil. The Tamil speaking peoples consider this as a fundamental right which would not be satisfied by a mere provision enabling a Tamil speaking person to write to and receive a reply from Government in his own language.

Page 47
84
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
and to conduct the proceedings of local bodies and regional councils in Tamil. In this connection it must be emphasised that much public business and many administrative functions would fall outside the ambit of regional councils and local bodies.
The Prime Minister's plan for the reasonable use of Tamil left out matters of fundamental importance to Tamil speaking
peoples and therefore failed in its purpose.
Rumbling heard about Needham Commission's Report.
There were unhappy rumblings heard about the Report by the Needham Commission that there is a sharp difference of opinion among members of the University Commission. (i) one member wants Sinhalese to be the medium of instruction at the University and the other members want three streams of instruction.
(2) Another part of difference between the members of the commission is over the question of granting University status to the Vidyodaya pirivenas. Two members of the commission held the view that these two institutions should be colleges affiliated to the University while the other member agrees with the Government decision to grant them University status in 1959.
During the year (1958 June) there were Sinhalese Tamil riots all over the country of great magnitude and as result there was complete dislocation of our regional organistions and our activities. The leaders of the movement were still firm in their stand for an independent Tamil University to ensure the preservation and protection of Tamil culture and learning. We firmly believed that the present set up of the University of Ceylon cannot cater to the needs of the Tamil population of the country and that it does not have the

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
85
Tawil cultural and spiritual atmosphere. The movement was not content with the suggestion made by the Prime Minister Bandaranayake recently that such a University should only be a cultural University. The Tamil University Movement held the view that there is nothing called a cultural University. Unless what the Prime Minister means is an institution...which is one like the Buddhist Vidyalankara and the Vidyodaya University which he envisaged. The leaders were of the view that the University will be academic and conferring academic and professional degrees. It must encourage the growth of self respect and independence of mind. It should not encourage a sense of dependence and subservience to the Sinhalese
majority.
It is not possible in the midst of an alien atmosphere for a minority to enjoy the benefits of cultural and academic freedom which constitute an essential part of the education imparted at the University. The lack of academic freedom is bound to set its mark on the entire out-look of our younger generation who will be expected to make its contribution to the leadership of the country. There should not be a split over constituent or affiliated college. We should not quarrel over siting of the University, in the North or East. We were against a cultural University,
At the council meeting held on 5th December, 1958.
The draft bill for the incorporation of the T. U. M. was considered. It was also resolved at this meeting that the trustees be empowered to release the funds lying to the credit of T. U. M. for investment in a scheme to fullfil the objects of the movement.
*The agenda for the 2nd Annual General Meeting to be held on the 24th of July 1959 was approved.
The second Annual General Meeting of the T.U.M. was held on .24-1-59. Sir Waitilingam Doraisamy presided over. the meeting. Mr. M. Tiruchelvam acting Solicitor General 'moved a resolution that the T. U. M. should immediately set up the Trincomalee section of the proposed University for the Tamil speaking peoples. In the course of his speech

Page 48
86
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
he told the movement that the Tamil speaking students are being shut from gaining admission to the Maharagama Teachers' and Training Institute, Agricultural College at Peradeniya, Colombo. Technical College. So it is our duty to see that the Tamil speaking students are provided with the necessary Educational facilities to pursue these courses of studies. There should be no delay. Steps should be taken immediately to set up these branches of study. So that we could commence the teaching of these subjects at least by June 1961. Mr. Manikam wished that these Departments should be established in Batticaloa. The general body did not agree with his views. The teachers who spoke for the resolution included Sir. Kanthia Vaithianathan, Mr. Manikka Idaikader, Professor Mailvaganam, Professor Sinnathamby, Mr. M. Mathiaparanam. and
Mr. Crosette Thambiah, Although the country was awaiting the report on University Expansion from Prof. Needham Com
mission, the Govt, had already passed the bill (19-11-57) raising the pirivena Buddhist schools - Vidyodaya to ‘University status (according to the Government's interpretation of the term). The inauguration of the new Vidyodaya University was done by Sir Oliver Goonetileke at an impressive ceremony at the Independence Hall on the 19th of Feb., 1959. The Prime Minister Mr. S. W. R. D. Bandaranayake in the course of his speech on this occasion mentioned if the Tamils asked for a Tamil University this Government would give careful and sympathetic consideration to this request''. What the Prime Minister probably meant was an educational set up like the ones set up in Vidyodaya and Vidyalankara Pirivenas.
They claimed that they were the first University to hold classes in Sinhalese. The students will study in five facultiesBuddhism, Philosophy, Language, Arts and Science; but actually to any student who is studying in this University set up would region it as a Buddhist Cultural University.
The Tamil speaking peoples had already made a request to the Prime Minister as early as 1956 for a fully fledged University comprising all other fields of study of a real University. It was an unanimous request by the Tamil

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
87
speaking peoples and preliminary steps have been taken towards the objective of a fully fledged University by them through their Tamil University Movement i and they had already submitted a memorandum to the Government appointed University Commission pressing their case for a separate University and the peoples were awaiting their report. Until this talk by the Prime Minister at the above mentioned inauguration ceremony, no other body thought of the ‘clever'
move by the Prime Minister except the T. U. M. sponsored and led by. - the recognised leaders of the Tamil speaking peoples headed by Sir Waitilingam Doraisamy.
At a meeting of the council held on the 12th of Feb., 1959 the chief items considerd. - finding a suitable site and purchase of a land for the University College at Trincomalee and the membership campaign.
The same propaganda committee as the one that was functioning earlier was appointed. At a propaganda meeting held on April 6, 1959, Prof. A. W. Mailvaganam said that a block of land of about 6 acres at the Inner Harbour Road, Trincomalee has been purchased for the new Tamil University. He said that the new University besides diffusing and expanding Tamil culture, will provide academic education, which will provide the know how of modern technology which will enable our Tamil people to venture into agricultural and industrial projects. The proposed University will remain non sectarian and will not differentiate on sex, religion or caste. Mr. C. Balasingam said at this meeting that our men and women should take to the productive enterprises which would bring them a honourable return and not depend on getting white collar jobs in the future.
The council of the T. U. M. met on 15-4-59 to make arrangements for laying the foundation stone for the Tamil University at Trincomalee. It was decided.
(1) To lay the foundation stone on 10-5-59 at 10 a. m.
(2) There shall be no items of religions nature in connection
with it.

Page 49
88
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
(3) There shall be two committees: (a) A Colombo
Committee, (b) A Trincomalee Committee. The Trincomalee Committee is to be composed of the Trincomalee regional Committee and the committee responsible, for acquiring the site.
(4) Special invitations to, the Prime Minister, Minister of
Education, Vice Chancellors of the University of Ceylon, Vidyodaya University, Vidyalankara University, Mayor of the Municipality of Jaffna, Chairman of the U.D. C's Town Councils and Village Councils in the Tamil speaking areas, Mr. S. Thondamanthus emphasising that it was to the wish and will of the Tamil people that it should
be sited at Trincomalee.
(i) Members of the Tamil University Moyement will be
invited individually.
(ii) The following will lay the foundation -- President of the
movment (in his absence the chairman of the council) chairman of U. C. Trincomalee, Members of the Parliament representing the Tamil speaking areas and Mr. S. Thondaman.
The speakers The Chairman of the U. C. Trincomalee, The President, Prof. A. W. Mailvaganam, Prof. A. Sinnathamby, Prof. P. K. Chanmugam, Rev. Father X. S. Thaninayagam, Members of Parliament, The Prime Minister (if he accepts the invitation)-- all Speakers will speak in Tamil. except that of the Prime Minister. who may speak in anyone of the three languages Tamil, Sinhalese or English.
The council of the T. U. M. also decided to inaugurate on May 10th at Trincomalee a fund called the Tamil University Building Fund — a contributor will subscribe Rs. 25/- a month for three years or a lump sum.
(7) Trincomalee Committee is responsible for all arrang
ments at Trincomalee.

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
89
(8). The entire district has to be represented — wide publi
sity has to be given so that the function would bring the desired impact on the Tamil Speaking Peoples of
the area. (9)
Accomodation for about 40 special invitees and another
200 have to be provided by the Trincomalee Committee. (10) Clearing of the site, decorations, music arrangements for
the civic reception by the U. C.
(11) At a meeting of the Regional Committee presided by
Mr. Kanagasingam on the 29-4-59. Mr. Neminathan was of the opinion that the P. M., Minister of Education and Political opposition are not to be invited. Mr. Rajavarothayam agreed with Mr. Neminathan, but he desired that Mr. Azeez, Mr. Suppiah and Senator Nalliah be also invited.
The chairmen of the Puttalam and Chilaw Urban Councils and other V. C. Chairmen of these areas (Towns) to be invited.
(12) The leaders to meet at Madathady and then go in procession led by the Chairman of the Trincomalee Urban Council. It was also decided that the President of Trincomalee Regional Branch of the T. U. M. also to speak.
About 5,000 invitation cards were printed for the foundation stone laying ceremony at 10 a. m. on the 10th of May 1959 at the Tamil University Movement land, Inner Harbour Road, Trincomalee. They were posted to the invitees on 22-4-59.
A Brochure The Tamil University' was posted both in Tamil and English for the occasion.
The front cover carried a photograph of the Inner Harbour with the picture of the proposed buildlng placed at the right site. On the inside of the front page of the booklet there was a map of the Inner Harbour with the site of proposed Building marked on it.

Page 50
90
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
Contents of the Booklet
The preamble: The Tamil University Movement was launched on June 1956 and the founders had in mind the following words of Dr. Chaim Weizman when he laid the foundation stone of the Hebrew Universty on 24th of July 1918.
**It seems paradoxical that in a land with so sparse a population, in a land where everything still remains to be done, in a land crying out for such simple things as ploughs, roads and harbours, We should begin by creating a centre of a spritual and intellectual development. But it is no paradox to those who know the soul of the Jew. It is true that great social and political problems still face us and demand their solution from us. We Jews, know however, that when our mind is given full play when we have a centre for the development of Jewish consciousness then coincidentaly we attain to fulfilment of our material needs.’
We too wish to have a place where our minds can have full play, where we can consider our special problems in an atmosphere all our own unhampered by the inhibitions imposed by a contending culture and civilisation. We realise the need for a Tamil University where a true synthesis between general learning and Tamil culture may be achieved and which would be the focal centre of the educational Scientific and the cultural aspirations of the Tamil speaking people of Ceylon.
In ancient times, Universities were founded by Kings and Princes. The modern tendency is for Government to establish Universities. In the neighbouring continent of India, Tamil Nad. has witnessed in recent yeais the establishment of Universities, Colleges and Scientific Institutions by financial and industrial magnates of South India.
The laying of the foundation stone for the University today is a dramatic act of faith in themselves by the Tamil speaking peoples of Ceylon who have come forward to prove that a peoplc united and determined can establish a university for themselves by themselves.

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
This phamphlet has been issued to commemorate the laying of the foundation stone of the Tamil University, by all the leaders of all sections of our peoples, in itself a memorable event. It gives a bird's eye view of the Colleges of Arts, Science, Engineering and Chemical Technology which will constitute the first stage of our programme.
(Drawn by our T.U.M. Architect Mr. S. A. David)
The Tamil University Movement has established a Special Building Fund for the money required for this stage of our programme and calls upon every Tamil speaking person in Ceylon to contribute to this fund and help the movement to demonstrate to the world that a people inspired can establish a University in the face of so many adverse circumstances.
The Tamil University Movement:
THE TAMIL UNIVERSITY
Site
The site consists of 8 acres of land with a 400 feet frontage on the Inner Harbour Road and looks on to one of the most' magnificient maritime landscapes in the Island. The site wedged in between the busy town and the dreaming slumbering Burrow and Orr hills is in close proximity to the heart of the Town on the one hand and to the sombre solitudes of the open sea and hilly spaces on the other. The land almost flat is well drained and is ideally situated, its value enhanced by the surroundings already referred to above. It gives ample scope for the designer to set the buildings in the scheme to capture the haunting beauty of the landscapes and still retain the advantages of natural lighting and ventilation.
Planning
The scheme envisages a central core with fountains, courts and statuary set in spacious lawns. This will be conne

Page 51
92
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
cted to the scenic highway, the Inner Harbour Road by an impressive avenue of palms and pillared courts. The building of the faculties of Arts, Science and Engineering will be set around this inner core. The Assembly Hall, the Administration Block, the Library and the Cafeteria will all be centred round the forecourt which is easiby accessible to the public for cultural and social activities. Science agd technology being the major objective, the buildings devoted to these faculties pre dominate the lay out.
The Laboratories, Studies and ancilliary rooms will be contained in long narrow easy walk up blocks consisting of a ground and two upper floors. The building orientated East
West to catch the sun and breeze look on to the vast expanse of the blue waters of the Bay. The lecture theatres scientifically designd - in accordance with the principles of accoustics are set at right angles to the main buildings to contrast with regular pattern of the main blocks. Adequate structural and Architectural provision will be made for vertical expansion to cater for future needs. The opposite page gives a diagram of the lay out of the buildings.
The legend says,
1. Assembly Hall, 2. Administration Blocks, 3. Library, Common Room
E and Cafetaria, 4. Arts Block,
5. Engineering Block, 6. Workshops,
Natural Science Block, 8. Physics Block,
9. Chemistry Technology Block, 10. Chemistry Block,
11. Inner Court, 12, Fore Court.
III Aesthetics
The intricate and ever changing requirements of modern Universities demand a functional and flexible layout in tune with the trend of our times. The wealth of our cultural and artistic heritage also requires our deep understanding and admiration. Therefore an attempt has been made to fuse the

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
93
past with the present into a monument worthy of a people who rooted in the traditions of their forefathers make bold to venture into the future with courage and confidence.
Reinforced concrete being the medium of construction its character will be expressed in bold rectangular pattern relieved with sculptural flowing curved canopies and covered ways. Sunshades and hoods designed to meet the needs of a tropical climate will be picturesquely patterned to relieve the regular grid of the structure. There will be elegant pillared corridors connecting the various blocks of the scheme. Infill panels in varied textures incorporating sculptured relief and mural paintings representing historical and artistic achievements of our race will be built at vantage points to lend colour and charm to the buildings. The whole scheme will be set in a carefully landscaped area with a view to creating the calm and quiet dignity worthy of an institution of this nature.
The opposite page carries a view of Assembly Hall, Administration Block, Library Cafeteria.
V. Programme
1st Stage: Faculties -- Faculties of Arts, Science, Economics
including Accoutancy, Actuarial Science and Business Administration and Engineering.
General Services: Administration, Buildings, Library, Assembly
Hall, Cafeteria and Workshops. 2nd Stage:- Faculties -- Faculties of Agriculture, Medicine and
Law.
Housing - Students Halls of Residence, Staff
Quarters, Guest House for visiting scholars.
Recreation-Playing Fields, Stadium, and Swimming
Pools, Students Common Rooms and
Gymnasium.
The University when fully established will be a teaching and

Page 52
94
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
examining body and a research centre. The full complement of the students will be about 5,000. The first accademic year will commence in June 1961 and the intake will be 500 students. They will be distribute as follows:-
Arts--140, Science - 160, Engineering and Architecture 80, Economics including Accountancy, Science and Business Administration — 120.
The opposite page carries an aerial view of scheme. There are two other views in the next two pages -- view of Science Block and Lecture Theatre and a picture-titled the spirit of the old masters, an inspiration to the new..
Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony
A Regional Committee meeting of the Trincomalee Regional T. U. M. was held on 27-4-59 at the Sampanthar Memorial Hall, Hindu College, to discuss arrangements for the above ceremony, Captain A. C. Kanagasingam, President of the Committee presided. Principals of schools, Members of the Trincomalee Urban Council, Lawyers, Medical Doctors Represent-atives of the Muslim Community and other leading citizens of the town were present. Prof, A. Sinnathamby one of the Vice Presidents of the movement announced that the foundation stone laying ceremony of the University which is to be established at Inner Harbour Road will be held on May 10th 10 a m. He further said-The time for planning is over and we have now reached the stage of implementing our plans. A University is essential for the Tamil speaking people. They must contribute their mite to make it an accomplished fact. The foundation stone laying was only the first stage of their plans. The second stage was the purchase of land about 200 acres in extent.
The council of the T. U. M. has decided to leave the arrangements for the foundation stone laying ceremony in the hands of the local committee.
Mr. S. Neminathan, Chairman of the Trincomalee Urban Council said it was the duty of the U. C. on behalf of the

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
citizens of the town to hold a civic reception to the Visitors and Guests. He assured that the U. C, would do every thing possible to make the function a success. Muhandiram C. Muthucumarasamy was elected Secretary of the Local Committee, Four Sub-committees were appointed to finalise arrangements.
It was also stated that efforts will be made to purchase about 200 acres of land at Uppuveli, Trincomalee. It was for the buildings of the second stage of the expansion of the University. This will enable at least 1.000 students to study at this Branch of the University. The University will prepare students for the examinations of the London University as is being done at Navalar Hall now. There will also be a Tamil Research Centre established at Trincomalee.
Messages of "Success to the efforts of the T. U. M. to found a University were received from the following Leaders:
1. Mr. N. R. Rajavarothayam, President of the Tamil Federal Party. He stated that the day of May 10th 1959 is a historic day in the history of the Tamil speaking people. The government of Ceylon has adopted a stepmotherly attitude in this matter of this setting up of this University, to preservo their language and culture and the Higher Fducation of the Tamil speaking people. It is very appropriate and quite a rightful thing at this juncture to lay the foundation of the Tamil University at Trincomalee.
This is not an activity against the interests of the other pepole living in this Island. All must forget their differences and work unitedly to establish this University.
Mr. Janab Mohamed-Ali--the M. P. for Muttur. in his message stated that a University for the Tamil speaking people is vitally necessary to preserve their language and cultures and to plan for their economis: future. All sections of the Tamil speaking people should work unitedly. He strossed that the Muslim people of Ceylon who are a section of the Tamil Speaking People should join hands with the other sections and make it a reality.

Page 53
96
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
2. From the Hony. Socretary of the Vivekananda Society, Mr. S. Rajadurai.
- Invitations had been sent to more than 10,000 people to attend this historic function. This includes Heads of all the Educational Institutions in the Island, Vice Chancellors of the University of Coylon, Vidyalankara University, Vidyodaya University and heads of other educational bodies All arrangements have been made for the laying of the foundation stone on the 10th of May 1959.
Sir Waitilingam Doraisamy is to preside over this function and if he is not physically fit to attend the ceremony Piof. A. W. Mailvaganam will preside.
The following will speak:- Sir Waitilingam Doraisamy, Prof. A. W. Mailvaganam, Prof C. J. Eliezer, Prof. P. K. Chanmugam, Prof. A. Sinnathamby, Rev. Father Thaninayagam, Mr. N. Q. Rajavarothayam, M. P. for Trincomalee, Mr. Mohamed Ali, M. P. for Mutur, Mr. S. Thondaman, President of the Ceylon Workers Congress. Mr. P. Poopalapillai will thank on behalf of the citizens of Trincomalee.
The Leaders of the Tamil University Movement and other Tamil leaders will be received at about 9 a. m. at the Madathady Junction by Mr. R. Neminathan, Chairman of the Trincomalee Urban Council, who will also read the address of welcome to this historic town, after the welcome songs aro sung by the pupils of the Thadchána Gana Sabaim anram of Trincomalee. Then Captain A. C. Kana gasingam, Chairman of the Regional T. U. M. Council will introduce the leaders of the people.
Then the procession will wend its way to the University Site. The statements from the leaders to the people of Ceylon, at appeared in the Chief Tamil Daily Newspapers one, from Prof. A. W. Mailvaganam appeared on May 10 th 1959 issue of the Thinakaran and the other from Mr. M. Thiruchelvam,
Q. C. appeared in the Virakesari on the same day.

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
A separate University for the Tamil
Speaking People
1. (in Tamil) – Prof. A. W. Mailvaganam, Chairman
of Council of the T. U. M. (appeared in the Thinakaran of 10-5-59.). 2. Statement by Mr. M. Thiruchelvam Q. C.-one of the
Vice Presidents.. ( Virakesari — 10-5-59.)
The town of Trincomalee was agog with excitement and joy. The guests and the pepole were pouring into the town. The people, both the Tamil and Muslim sections havo decorated the streets and on the 10th of May there were about 10,000 people who had come to the town to attend this historic Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony.
On Monday the 10th of May 1959, the morning was bright and sunny. The sun rose majestically from the ocean deliberately pushing its way up from the horizon where the sky and the ocean meet. The clouds were lit with colours. The town assumed a festive appearance The people and leaders were gathering at the Madathady where a large decorated Panthal had been put up by the Trincomalee Town Couucil to receive the Distinguished Leaders. House holders on the routs of the procession were busy decorating their front yards with flower garlands, buntings and placing the Tamil traditional Nirai Kudam and the Kut! uvilakku and many flower garlands on ta bles. The Muslim householders were ready with crackers to be lit to greet the Leaders.
From the early hours of the morning practically all the Tamil. citizens, Musilm citizens, men, women and youths and children and old people irrespective of sectional differences racial and religious differences, regional differences, political differences and guests and visitors from all parts of Ceylon (North, East, North West, Central Provinces), were wending their way to the Madathady Junction. The women were especially wore their best clothes and their rich ornaments

Page 54
98
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
and had their Kunkuma Poddu on their foreheads and their Kondais were donned with flowers. The children were gaily dressed. It was thrilling to watch this colourful and joyous crowds wending their way to Madathady. The very old people had their traditional ‘Urumal' turbans on their heads. Their regional, religious and political differences were forgotten and as I wa'ched this, I began to realise the foundation stone of the Unity of the Tamil Speaking People - was also being laid and there was the sun rising with haste from the far fringe of the vast horizon in a majestic manner, to witness and bless the two epoch making events of change in the attitudes of the Tamil Speaking People.
By about 8-30 a. m. the citizens of Trincomalee the guests and the leaders from all parts of Ceylon had gathered at the Madathady Panthal. The Chairman of the Town Council and the Members of the Council and the Members of Parliament of the Trincomalee District and the leading citizens of Trincomalee were there. Mr. B. Neminathan Chairman of the Town Council welcomed the guests. He read an address of welcome (see next pige). Mr. Rajavarothyam, M. P. for Trincomalee, Captain A. C. Kanagasingam, Chairman of the Trincomalee Regional Branch of the T.U.M., Mr. T. Ehamparam M. P. were all there. The traditional ceremonies of Tamil weleome were done.
The people of Trincomalee also read a welcome address;-

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
90
திருமலை தமிழ்ப் பல்கலைக்கழக கல்நாட்டு விழா
வரவேற்பு மடல் ''செந்தமிழே! உயிரே! நறுந் தேனே
செயலினை மூச்சினை உனக்களித் தேனே''
- பாரதிதாசன்
பல் கலைக் கழகக் குழுவினரே! பைந்தமிழ்க் குடியினரே!
எப்பணிக்கும் முதற்பணியாம் நற்றமிழை வளர்க்கும் பணி. இப்பணியைச் செய்வதற்கு ஈழத்து மண்ணில் இனிய தமிழ்ப் பல்கலைக் கழகம் நிறுவவேண்டி, தணியாத ஆர்வத்துடன் இங்கு வருகை தந்திருக்கும் இனித்திடும் அணித்தமிழ் அறிஞர்களே! தன்மானமொன்றே நல்வாழ்வெனக் கொண்ட தாய்க்குலமே! விஞ்ஞான வித்தகர்களே!பாராளுமன்ற உறுப்பினர்களே! காடாகக் கிடந்த நிலத்தைப் பொன் கொழிக்கும் நாடாக மாற்றியமைத்த மாண்புமிக்க மலை நாட்டுத் தலைவர்களே? பிற நாட்டுப் பிரதிநிதி களே! செயலாற்றும் செம்மல்களே; மொழியால் ஆண்ட முழு முதல்வன் வழித்தோன்றல்களே! மொழிகள்குலமுதல்வியாம் முத் தமிழ் அன்னையின் பெயரால் நானும், எனது நகராண்மைக் கழக உறுப்பினர்களும், இந்நாட்டு மக்களும் உள்ளத்தில் உவகை துள்ள உங்களை வரவேற்கிறோம்.
திருமலை தீரர்களின் கோட்டம்
தீந்தமிழ் முழக்கம் செய்யும் தீரர்களின் கோட்டமாம் திரு மலையில், கன்னித்தமிழ் வளர்க்கும் கழகம் காண கல் நாட்டுவிழா எடுக்கும் இந்த நாள், சிதறிக்கிடக்கும் செந்தமிழர் கூட்டத்தின் சிந்தை மகிழ்வித்து , ஒற்றுமைக்கு வழிகாட்டும் ஓர் உன்னத நாளா கும். சரித்திரத்தில் சாக த இடம்பெற்ற இத்தங்கத் திருநாட்டில், சங்கம் வைத்து மொழி வளர்த்த மரபினர், பல்கலைக் கழகம் என்னும் மங்காத சுடர் பரப்பும் மணி விளக்கை ஏற்றிவைப்பது கண்டு நாங்கள் அனைவரும் பெருமகிழ்ச்சியடைகிறோம். உறங்கிக் கிடக்கும் தமிழர் கள் துடித்தெழுந்து தமிழுக்குத் துறைதோறும், துறைதோறும் தொண்டு செய்ய இத்தூய பணி உதவட்டும்.
இப்பல்கலைக் கழகம்...
வேழத்தை வீழ்த்திட்ட வீரப் பரம்பரையோர் ஈழத்திலே இன்ன லுறும் நிலையை மாற்றி, தமிழர்கள் தலை நிமிர்ந்து வாழ வழி சமைத்து, '' தமிழ் தழுவாச் சுவடிதனைத் தணல் தழுவா

Page 55
100
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
திராதினிமேல் ''
என்று முத்தான தமிழிலே, சத்தான குரல் கொடுக்கும் நடமாடும் பல்கலைக் கழகங்கள் பலவற்றை எதிர் காலத்தில் உருவாக்கி உயர்வடைக.
அரசு கட்டிலில் வீற்றிருக்கும் ஆட்சியாளர், தங்கள் ஆணவத் தால் சிந்தை மணக்கவரும் செந்தமிழைச் சிதைத்துவிட்டு, 'சிங் களம் மட்டும்' என்ற தகாத மொழிக் கொள்கையைத் தமிழர் மீது திணித்து, (முடைநாற்றம் வீசுகின்ற வகுப்புவாதத்தைப் பரப்பி வரும் இந்நாளில், தென் மொழியாம் - தேன்மொழியாம் - இன்பத் தமிழ் மொழியைத் தெருவெல்லாம் பரவச் செய்து , 'மொழி எங்கள் விழி' என்ற உணர்வைத் தட்டி முத்தமிழை அரியாசனத் தில் அமர்த்தும் அரிய பணியில் இப்பல்கலைக் கழகம் அயராது உழைக்கட்டும். பிறநாட்டு நல்லறிஞர் சுவடி யாவும் நல்ல தமிழில் பெயர்த்து, இறவாத புகழுடைய புது நூல்கள் தமிழ் மொழியில் படைத்து, கா வியங்கள்-ஓவியங்கள்-விஞ்ஞானம்-உயர்கலைகள் யாவும் நடமாடும் கலைக்கோயிலாக இப்பல்கலைக் கழகம் செய லாற்றிச் சிறப்படைக.
வணக்கம்.
இவ்வண்ணம், பா. நேமிநாதன். ஜே. பி., யூ. எம்.
- தலைவர்
உறுப்பினர்கள் ;-
டாக்டர். க. நமசிவாயம் (உப-தலைவர்) திரு. த. ஏகாம்பரம், ஜே. பி., யூ. எம்.
முகாந்திரம் சி. முத்துக்கு மாரு ஜனாப்.. மஸ் தான் பாவா அலியார்
தி ரு. எம் ஜே. அப்புஹாமி டாக்டர் சி. சிவானந்தம் திரு. வே. கிருஷ்ணசாமி திரு. க. சிவபாலன் பீ. ஏ. (லண்டன்),
நகராண்மைக் கழகப் பணி மனை, திருகோணமலை,
10-5-59.

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
A. I
Memorandum presented by the Tamil University Movement to the University Commission on the need for the Establishment of a separate University for the Tamil-Speaking peoples of Ceylon.
Preamble :
1. It will be necessary at the outset to explain briefly to the University Commission the genesis of the Tamil University Movement, its purpose and its objectives, and above all its status to speak on behalf of the Tamil-speaking peoples of this country, so as to enable the Commission to view their problems in the proper historical 3 setting.
The Tamil University Movement
2. The Tamil University Movement was launched in the month of June 1956, a month of great significance to the Tamil-speaking peoples of Ceylon. It was in this month that the Sinhala Only Bill was passed by the Sinhalese majority in the Parliament seeking to establish Sinhalese as the sole Offi. cial Language of this country. This Bill was passed in the teeth of bitter opposition by the Tamil-speaking peoples and was followed by widespread communal disturbances through out the Country.
Reason for the establishment of the Movement.
3. The main reason for the establishment of the Tamil University Movement was the realisation on the part of the Tamil-speaking peoples of Ceylon that, unless they took immediate steps for the preservation of their language, their heritage and culture, they were in imminent danger of losing not only their identity as a separate linguistic and cultural entity but even their continued existence as self respecting peoples of this country. The Movement counts a membership of over 3000 and enjoys the support and the confidence of the Tamil speaking peoples of this country from all walks of life.

Page 56
A. 2
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
Objects of the Movement.
4. The objects of the Movement are twofold -
(1) the establishment of a University for the Tamil-speaking
peoples of Ceylon, and
(2) the advancement of the higher education of the Tamil.
speaking peoples in all its aspects.
Items in the terms of Reference of the Commission in which the Movement is interested.
5. As far as the Tamil University Movement is concerned it is interested in only 2 out of the 18 items in the Terms of Reference of the University Commission, namely item || which deals with the need for other Universities in Ceylon on a regional linguistic or other basis.
Media of instruction in Secondary Schools.
6. To enable the Commission to appreciate the importance of this matter, a brief resume of the history of the media of instruction in the educational structure of this country will be given. On April 4, 1940, a Special Committee of the Executive Committee of Education of the Ceylon State Council was formed to investigate the defects of the existing educational system and to recommend measures of reform necessitated by the changed conditions in the country This Committee Issued its report in November 1943 and on July 19, 1950 a
White Paper on education was presented to the House of Representatives by the Hon. Minister of Education embodying most of the recommendations of the Special Committee.
The Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Education at this time was Mr L. J. de S. Seneviratne. In accordance with these recommendations the medium of instruction for all subjects in Standard 6 was to be Sinhalese or Tamil from 1953, and the changeover was extended progressively to Standard 7

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
A. 3
and Standard 8 in 1955 and 1956 respectively. Legislative sanction was given to these proposals by the Education (Amendment) Act No. 5 of 1951. The date for the change. over was later extended till January 1956 for Standard 7 and till January 1957 for Standard 8, and although a Commission appointed by the Government to inquire into this matter had not yet presented its report, the Hon. Minister of Education announced in Parliament on January 13, 1955 that the medium of instruction in the pre - S.S.C. and S. S.C. classes would be Sinhalese or Tamil by January 1957.
7. It will be seen that, as far as the secondary education of this country is concerned, the medium of education is either Sinhalese or Tamil according to the language of the student.
Commission on Higher Education
8. In 1954 the Government appointed a Commission on Higher Education to report on the introduction of Sinhalese or Tamil as media of instruction in the Senior Secondary classes, the University level and other related questions. One of the
members of the Commission was Mr. L. J. de S. Seneviratne, now Special Commissioner for Official Language Affair and a member of the University Commission. The report of the Commission was issued in July 1956. The report of the majority group of the Commission was of a very far reaching nature, especially the proposal that higher education should be restricted and provided, not according to the capabilities of the students, but on a racial basis. In this connection reference is invited in particular to Chapter 19, Sections 3 to 40 of the majority group's report. It might not be out of place here to mention that Mr. L. J de S. Seneviratne was one of the majority group which recommended that University education should be rationed in the proportion of 6 Sinhalese speaking students to every Tamil speaking student seeking University education. The following extract from 245 of the Report is worthy of attention by the University Commission particularly because it indicates the trend which affairs were taking at that time :

Page 57
A. 4
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
“Furthermore, the projection of special community higher levels demands that Sinhalese and Tamil medium Universities be established so as to provide University education in the ratio of 6 Sinhalese students to every single
Tamil student. ''
The worst fears of the Tamil-speaking people were confirmed by the publication of this report in July 1956. It was only one month earlier in June 1956 that the Sinhala Only Bill
was passed, and it was with the intention of preserving for the Tamil speaking peoples of this country their right to University education that tne Tamil University Movement was launched at this time.
Medium of instruction at the University Level.
9. As far as the Tamil-speaking people of this country are concerned, there can be no question that their higher education should be in their mother tongue, English being used only when the Tamil language is not adequate enough for the teaching of special subjects.
Need for a separate University for the Tamil-Speaking peoples.
10. The Tamil-speaking peoples of Ceylon form a separate and distinct cultural entity, and a separate University for them is essential to preserve and to protect their language and their culture. The events nf the past few years have amply proved that there cannot be a «National University
with two streams as far as the media of instruction are concerned, and it is essential that the Tamil-speaking peoples
who form an important part of the population of this country should have a University over which they will have full control. Responsible members of the present Government, including the Hon. Minister of Education have, during the Election campaign in 1956 and thereafter, mentioned time and again in public speeches that the Tamils were holding a dispropor. tionate number of posts in the learned professions and in Government service, and that this state of affairs should be

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
A 5
remedied without delay. Again when the post of Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ceylon fell vacant in 1955, a campaign was carried out that the next holder of the post should be a Sinhalese Buddhist. It is for these reasons that the Tamil-speaking peoples of Ceylon consider it imperative that they should have their own University free from the stranglehold which the Sinhalese politicians and their officials now exercise over the University at Peradeniya.
Disabilities of Tamil-speking students at the Peradeniya University.
II. It is the earnest wish of every racial and cultural group in any country to have its children educated at all levels in a cultural atmosphere which is genuinely theirs and which will enable them to imbibe their cultural traditions. The Sinhalese people have spared no pains to ensure that at Peradeniya that their children will receive their University education in an atmosphere which they consider to be distinctly theirs.
While the Tamil-speaking peoples do not wish to deny to their Sinhalese brethren their inherent right to have their children brought up in a traditionally Sinhalese cultural atmosphere, they consider it most inappropriate that the Tamil-speaking children should be subjected to the influences of a culture and a background that is foreign to them.
12. It is also necessary to point out here that the atmosphere at the Peradeniya Uuiversity does not encourage the growth of self-respect among the Tamil speaking students but on the contrary gives them a feeling of inferiority and a sense of being member of an unwanted racial group. Not only does it create a sense of frustration among our students but also it tends to encourage among the more weak-minded of them a sense of dependence and subservience to the Sinhalese majority. This is the state of affair which we wish to remedy, and we consider it indispensable for the future of our peoples that our younger generation should be brought up in an atmosphere which is their own and against the background of Tamil language and culture. It is not possible in the midst of an alien and hostile atmosphere for a minority

Page 58
A 6
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
to enjoy the benefits of cultural or academic freedom which constitutes an essential part of the education imparted at a University. This lack of academic freedom is bound to set its mark on the entire outlook of our younger generation who after all will be the future leaders of the Tamil-speaking people of this country.
Tamil Language and culture have to be developed.
1.3. Whereas money has been spent most lavishly on the development of Sinhalese language and culture at Peradeniya in the past very little has been done in this direction as far as the Tamil language and culture are concerned and it is clear from the present trend of events tnat nothing whatever will be done unless the Tamil-speaking people have a University of their own and over which they will have full control. The development of the Tamil language and culture must be pursued in an atmosphere of absolute academic freedom unrestrained and unhindered by outside pressure or hostility: This is not all. Whereas the Sinhalese language and culture was preserved in the Pirivenas during the period of four and a half centuries of foreign occupation, and now enjoy in full measure the patronage of the Government, the Tamil language has not only not had these benefits but on the contrary is today languishing withont any support from the Government. It may be argued that the Tamil language is sufficiently well - cared for in India and that therefore the Tamil-speaking peoples in this country need have no fear that their language would suffer even if neglected In Ceylon. Questions of this nature have been posed in the past by certain politicians and it is necessary to state here emphatically that the Tamil speaking peoples of Ceylon have a culture and tradition which is quite distinct from that obtaining in India. Even the language has been preserved in Ceylon in its state of pristine purity, and has not suffered as it has in India from the imPact of linguistic forces such as Hindi and Urudu. It is also relevant here to note that although the French language has its home in France, the French minority in Canada has got its own University in Laval, the French Cantons in Switzerland

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement :
A 7
has its University in Lausssine and the French speaking Belgians their own University in Brussels. In all countries of the
World, the national minorities have established their own Universities for the preservation of their language and their cultural traditions. Just as the Flemish minority in Belgium has its own University of Ghent, even so the Tamil-speaking minorities in Ceylon need a University of their own to protect their language and cultural traditions. The Tamil language as such has not yet developed sufficiently to enable the teaching of Science and modern technology to be undertaken through its medium. It is necessary that a Uuiversity for the Tamil
- speaking peoples should have within its control all the faculties so that the language could be used as far as possible in the teaching of science and technology. A language can develop only when brought in direct contact with modern Scientific knowledge and it is only by undertaking the teaohing of these subjects in Tamil that the Tamil language can develop on its proper lines.
Special economic and Social problems to be solved.
14. The Tamil-speaking peoples like the Sinhalese people, have their own economic and social problems to be solved. Some of them are of a fundamental nature and the necessary research work and investigations can be done best only in a University by staff conversant with these problems and competant to deal with them and with an acute feeling for the problems of their people. As an example might be mentioned the necessity for evolving a new system of education in Tami for the primary and secondary schools and the writing of
modern scientific text books in the Tamil language. These involve a considerable amount of research and patient study and the collection of information. As a further example might be cited the lack of a research institute for the development of the Palmyrah industry on which depends the economy of a large number of the Tamil-speaking peoples. Ceylon has Research Institutes for Tea, Rubber and Coconut but strangely enough none for Palmyrah. The need for conducting research work on the development of the Dry Zone which forms a

Page 59
A 8
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
large part of the Tamil-Speaking areas of Ceylon, the exploitation of the ground water resources of these aaeas and several other matters have yet to be undertaken.
14A: Culture and Traditions of the Tamil-speaking People.
There is no cultural history of the Tamil-speaking peoples of Ceylon, and it is singnificant that this important task has not even been touched upon by the Archaeological Department of the Government. This Department has done very little to preserve and to record the archaeological remains of Tamil origin that are to be found in various parts of the Island. Tamils has enjoyed a definite status through the centuries in the history of this country, and it might be of interest for the Commission to note that Tamil was a compulsory language in the Kotte Pirivena three centuries ago and was also the lenguage of the Court of the Kandyan Kings. Only a University of the Tamil-spaaking peoples can remedy these short-comings and regain the ground already lost by the period of stagnation which the language has suffered during the past four and a half centuries.
1st Interview with the Prime Minister on the subject of a University for the Tamil-speaking peoples.
15. On the 11th of October 1956 the representatives of the Tamil University movement requested the Hon. PrimeMinister to receive a deputation from the Movement to discuss with him the necessity for the establishment of a University for the Tamil-speaking peoples of Ceylon. After some delay, the Hon. Prime Minister received a deputation on the 14th January 1957. The representatives of this Movement presented a case for the establishment of a University in the Tamil-speaking areas for the Tamil-speaking peoples which would, besides carrying out the normal activites of a University, help to preserve and foster their language and culture in this country. The deputation was asked by the Prime
Minister to put proposals for consideration, if it so desired, for the establishment of an affiliated or constituent colleges of the University of Ceylon with such faculties as it considered desireble in such College.

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
A 9
16. The Tamil University Movement gave its most anxious consideration to the P. M. s proposal and came to the conclusion that its object could not be secured by a constituent college of the University of Ceylon or by a college affiliated to it, and considered it necessary that a full-fledged University for the Tamil-speaking peoples should be established. The
Movement felt that the establishment of a University in the Tamil-speaking areas for the Tamil-speaking peoples should be regarded as a step in the right direction for the greater provision of facilities for higher education.
Second Meeting with the P. M.
17. The Deputation from the Movement met the Prime Minister for a second time on the 18th September 1957 to discuss further with him its proposal for the establishment of a University for the Tamil-speaking peoples. The deputation emphasised that the educational set up in Ceylon was such that at a very early stage the children were segregated into 3 linguistic groups and bringing them together at the University level would not serve any useful purpose as the University too would have the students similarly segregated into linguistic "groups. This would only tend to accentuate the feeling of antagonism already existing and would not in any way promote goodwill or understanding. It was also pointed out that having regard to the circumstances that Sinhalese was the sole official language in Ceylon, the academic and the cultural atmosphere In the University of Ceylon would be more favourable to the majority community, and the Tamil-speaking students would have to work in an atmosphere full of inhibitions and complexes:
18. After some discussion the P. M. requested the deputation to present its case for a separate Univesrity for the Tamil-speaking peoples of Ceylon to the University Commission which was to be appointed shortly and which would have among its terms of reference the examination of the future pattern of University education in Ceylon.

Page 60
A 10
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
Nature of the University desired by the Tamil-speaking peoples.
19In view of the geographical distribution of the Tamil-speaking peoples in Ceylon, the Tamil University Movement is of the opinion that the University should not beunitary but of the federal type. A draft, scheme for this University is given in Appendix A to this memorandum. The Scheme has been drawn up with the object of making the best use of the available resources already existing in the Tamil-speaking areas of Ceylon with the least expenditure of money to the Government.
* 20. As will be seen from Appendix A, the Head-quarters of the University will be in Batticaloa in the village of Vantharamoolai where the buildings erected for a Central school are available. The proposal is to take over these buildings and to house in them the Faculties of Arts, Science, Economics and Commerce as well as the administration buildingsof the University Headquarters. Sufficient land is available in the vicinity for expansion.
| 21. The Movement is of the view that Trincomalee should be the site for the Faculty of Engineering. The buildings vacated by the Royal Navy and Air Force are available here for immediate occupation and with the proper equipment theseCould be converted into the Engineeing Faculty of the proposed
University.
22. As far as the Medical Faculty is concerned the larges hospitai in the Tamil-speaking areas is at Jaffna with a bed strength of over 450 and a large staff. The Jaffna Hospitals Could be converted without much expenditure into a teaching hospital, and the Faculty of Law could also be established in Jaffna without much expenditure.
23. The Movement has considered it most desirable to set up the Faculty of Agriculture and Veterinary Science at Vavuniya as this is the area where new agricultural techniques have to. be worked out with a view to developing the dry Zone.

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
Α Π.
Availability of Teachers.
| 24. A sufficient number of teachers is available among the Tamil-speaking people to man immediately all the faculties of a full-fledged University. A perusal of the iist of officebearers of the Tamil University Movement, given Appendix B will show the wealth of talent that is available for immediate utilisation.
Estimate of Expenditure.
25. The proposals set out above have been with the express purpose of minimising the out-lay necessary for the immediate establishment of a University in the Tamilspeaking areas for the Tamil-speaking peoples The Tamil speaking peoples are not anxious that the Government should spend very large sums of money in erecting the necessary buildings and equipping their University as has been done at Peradeniya. They will be satisfied if the bare minimum requirements are provided so that Immediate steps could be taken to commence teaching, additions being made as and when the finances of the country permitted. The Movement has prepared all its own estimate of its requirements and feels that a initials sum of Rs. 5,000,000 would be adequate. This is not a very large sum by the present day standards and the Tamil University Movement hopes that the University Commission will give due consideration to the legitimate requirements of the Tamil-speaking peoples of this Country and recommend to the Government the necessity for the immediate establishment in the Tamil -speaking areas of a University which the Tamil-speaking people could call their own and over the destinies of which they will have the fullest control.

Page 61

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
101
The Procession to the foundation site started at about 9 a. m. The Tamil Nathasuram, drummer and •flute’ players playing their music headed the procession. They were followed by the girl students of the Shanmuga Vidyalayam, This 'procession' of girls students dressed in the traditional Tamil way was headed by a section doing rhe kummi dance, another section singing melodions geethams, and still another strewing flowers all along the way. They were followed by the leaders of the people-Mr. B. Neminathan, Prof. A. W. Mailvaganam, Sir Kanthiah Vaitianathan, Mr. S. Thondaman, Mr. S. Manikkam from Batticaloa, Prof. A. Sinnatamby, Mr. Manikka Idaikkadar, Rev. E. Crowther. Mr. M. Thiruchelvam, Mr. A. I. Kanagasabai, Pandit K. P. Ratnam, Mr. V. Lakshmanar and others. Following the above Leaders were the chief citizens of Trincomalee, the Members of Parliament representing the various areas, Chairmen of the various Urban Councils. Village Committees and the general public.
This long Procession wended its way through the Main Street, Sea View Street, Inner Harbour Road to the Universitey site. An along the route Prof. A. W. Mailvagapam and the Leaders were welcomed. They were garlanded; The Muslims lighted crackers opposite their houses and ultimately the procession reached the site where the foundation stone was to be laid.
The older leaders were all there, seated in the huge
••panthal'' that was put up near the foundation trench. As the procession reached the site the concourse of people of nearly ten thousand men and women from various parts of the Island who were waiting there received the Leaders with great ovation and clapping of hands. Then the leaders got on the dais. Along with the Leaders of The Tamil University Movement and those of the Trincomalee District there were Mr. S. J. v. Chelvanayagam. Mr. & Mrs C. Suntharalingam, Mr. S. Thondaman, Mr. A. S. T. Kadagasabai. Rev. Father E. Crowther, Janab M. V. S. Mohamed Ali M. P., C. Vaoniasingam M. P, Mr. V. A. Kanthiab, M. P. Mr. C. Rajadurai. M. P. Mr. Rajavarotbayam, M. P. Mr. T. Ehamparam, M. P. and other Chief Citizens of the Tamil Speaking People. Few

Page 62
102
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
Buddhist priests and Catholic priests attended the function. Mr. A. C. Kanagasingam presided. The Trincomalee Dakshana Gana Sabai girl students sung the welcome song. Captain A. C. Kanagasingam introduced the leaders to the people. Mr. P. Neminathan Chairman of the U. D. C. of Trincomalee welcomed the Guests and the vast concourse of people.
Sir Waitilingam Doresamy was unable to preside over than ceremony on account of reasons of illhealth and therefore Prof. A. W. Mailvaganam on his behalf - spoke as the chief speaker. He spoke in Tamil.
“I am not here before you to tell you about the various harmful actions perpetrated by the Government to our language and culture. I wish to remind you now how very necessary it is to preserve and further the growth of our language and culture.
This is our greatest duty to our people. The period we are living is marked by the suppressive and oppressive racial policies of the Government. It is during this period that we realised that it was imperative and we should have our own Tamil University to conserve our culture, our language and the creative attributes of our people. During the year 1956 the Tamils realised most painfully that the trust we had in the Government had been belied and that we have been deceived. It was imperative that without trusting the Government in the matter of setting up a separate University for us, we should make a sincere effort to set up one for us. I sincerely believe that we can succeed in this venture. During the 19th century, the English thrust the English Language on the Catholics of Ireland. His Holiness the Pope realised the dangers to the Irish People as regards their language, culture and religion. He ordered that immediate efforts should be made to set up a separate University for the Irish People. The result was that a separate University for the Irish Catholics was set up.
In a similar way the Jews after being suppressed and oppressed by the Germans they built a separate University for themselves and thus protected their language and Culture.

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
103
I have no doubt that after coming to know these historic ventures that all of you will realise that it is imperative that we should have a separate University for ourselves •
After his presidential speech the welcome songs were sung.
LAYING OF THE FOUNDATION STONE
Now there was tremendous excitement amongst the leaders and the thousands of the pepole gathered there. Sharp at 10 a. m. the foundation stone was going to be laid by the leaders—The Drummers and Nathasuram players blasted their music and ‘Thamilar Valga, Kanni Thamil Moli Valga', Tamil Palkalai Kalaga Iyakkam Valga' - Thamil Molikku Jai'-these joyous shouts rent the air. Flowers were being rained from above-Now Prof. A, W. Mailvaganam tying his shawl round his head on the shape of a turban, stepped down from the dais followed by others and walkedup to the foundation trench and said "Our Mother Language is being relegated to the background. Let us first remove this injustice. Let us build up the University to preserve our language and culture and our economic prosperity'". Then observing all the Tamil traditional customs and laid the first foundation stone amidst the beating of the drums. ahed the blaring of the Nathasuram flutes and the loud prayers of the people. The atmosphere was electric.
Then the following Leaders laid the fonndationstones. Mr. B. Nemianthan, Chairman of U. D. Trincomalec., Mr. S.J.V. Chelvnaygam M. P., Mr C. Suntharalingam M. P., Mr. N. R. Rajavarothayam M. P., Mr. A. Amirthalingam M. P., Mr. C. Vanniyasingham. M. P., Mr. V. A. Kanthiah M. P., Mr. S. Rajamanik kam M. P., Janab Mohamed Ali M. P., Rev. Fr. Crowther, Mr. A. L. T. Kanagasabai, and other Leading Citizens and Educationists. When Mr. S. Thondaman laid the stone-‘lalai Naddu Tamilar Valga! shouts rent the air. People started singing poetic compositions of the Tamil Renaissance Poet Subramaniya Bharati, Vetti Edduth Thikkum Koddu Murasay'-Thamilar Enra Oru Inam Undu' and other songs.

Page 63
104
Tht Diary of the Tamil University Movement
Then the Leaders of the people addressed the gathering.
* Mr. N. R. Rajavarothayam, M. P. Trincomalee.
He addressed in Tamil. “In the annals of the histroy of the Tamil Speaking People of Ceylon, the events of today should be written in letters of gold. We have laid the foundation store for a Tamil University at sunrise today. Let this day be considered as also the day when the Tamils suffering from oppression and suppression in all spheres of life saw the rise of the light of knowledge that will show them the way to get rid of their woes and troubles and lay the foundation for a future when they can live free in their Tamil land with equality, fraternity dignity and prosperity with all people of the world. In pursuance of these objectives, let this University which we are founding today grow up very quickly and reach its full stature as the soure of all knowledge that will advance us to a a bright and sunny future. I can assure you beyond any doubt that we will see this University in its full stature in the course of our life time, It is our own innate strength that will make this effort of ours a sucess. Let us work unitedly forgetting our various differences and build up this UniversityI know we will succeed in this..
Prof. A. Sinnatbamby speaking in Tamil said, "I am very happy to see that the Muslim population have come in large numbers to participate in this Ceremony. The monther tongue of the Muslims- of Ceylon is Tamil. I appeal to them to join us and work unitedly and see that the University with the least delay sees the light of the day."
Prof. P.K. Chanmugam speaking in Tamil said, "The honour of setting up a University first in this country by the people by their own efforts belongs to the Tamil speaking people. I have no doubt that this University will be built soon and shed its influence on all spheres of life of the Tamil speaking people. »
Mr. S. Thondaman apenking in Tamil said, "This day is not only a great day in the history ofthe Tamil speaking people of Ceylon but also a great day, to all the people of the world interested in advancing higher knowledge. Tamil

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
105
Language has been an Official Language for a long period in this country. We will soon see the day when the Tamil Language Will again be one of the Ofiicial Languages in this country. We are laying the foundation stone for one University for the Tamil speaking people of this country. We want similar Universites in the other parts of the country. Though we may have political differences among us, we must join and work unitedly to achieve our objective although the present Government is making tremendous efforts to relegate our language to the back-yard during the last 3 years. We have succeeded in laying the foundation stone for . Tamil University within 2 years. We must complete the construction work and commence teaching here’’.
Mr. Janab Mohamed Ali M. P. for Muthur, speaking in Tamil said, “Tamil is the mother tongue of the Muslim also I have emphasised this in many meetings held amongst our people. Therefore it is vital for the Muslims to extend their full support and see that the University may quickly function in its own buildings''.
In the evening there was a Tea Party for the Leaders and a dance recital at the Trincomalee Hindu College.
The Times of Ceylon, May 12, 1959 had the following editorial;
The Tamil University
The Tamil Community in Ceylon has very good reasons to congratulate itself on the laying of the foundation stône of the projected Tamil University during the weekend. There may be some regret about the circumstances in which the idea was born during a period of communal bitterness but later good comes out of evil, and this University school is certainly an excellent one but which must be welcomed not being an asset to the country as a whole, for one thing University facilities are in very short supply to this country; And it is also a good thing that (as in the case of the new Buddhist Universities) there should be a centre of learning with special emphasis on some aspect of Oriental Culture in this core of Tamil Culture.

Page 64
106
The Diary of the Tmail University Movement
We look forward to a bright future for the New University when it is finally established and we have hope it will develope into a Cultural Centre renowned both here in this country and abroad. The Community is fortunate in having men and women of brilliance and ability who can and doubtless serve on the staff of the New University and there has been sufficient. indication already that the community will not shirk on making financial sacrifices to fulfill a great dream. It is particularly encouraging to note that in spite of the circumstances which gave a filip to the movement, the organisers have no intention to confine the University within narrow racial limits for thene it would cease to be our University and become a tribal college. It is natural that pride. of place should be given to the development of Tamil Language and Culture; But we believe that all the objects of the
movement aims at can be achieved without gwing to the establishment a purely racial character.
It is perhaps too early to speak about academic recognition for the New University. It will be like the Pirivena Universities, probably find that it will have to prove itself . first. There seems to be some doubt in the minds of the organisers whether or not it will receive state recognition and financial assistance. It appears that a decision will be
made by the Government after the Needham Report is considered-witch provides another reason why the report should be published early. But we do not anticipate any serious difficulty in this respect just as it is evident that the state alone cannot provide all the schools the country requires so,
we think it will be realised that state institutions alone cannot provide all the University Education the nation needs. It may also be pointed out that anything like a monopoly in University Education can be harmful to the nation. If, as we all hope, the new University is firmly established and acts and maintains a high standard it will have an irresistible claim to the support not only of the Tamil people but also of the state.
The 3rd Annual General Meeting of the T. U. M. was held in 12th of July 1959 at the Navalar Hall premisls. Mr. T. Rajadurai moved certain amendments to section 3 of the

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
107
constitution; Any member or any person eligible for membership who has rendered outstanding services to the Movement or donates a lump suu of Rs. 1.000/- or more at one and the same time shall be entitled to be elected as a life member. to delete the words and add to be members of the council.
To section 5: To every 40 members of whom at least 30 shall be full members.
The Chairman of the Council on behalf of the Council moved the following resolutions:-
*“The General Meeting of the T. U. M. urges the Government of Ceylon to establish immediately a University Grants Committee on the lines of the University Grants Committee now operating in U. K. Prof. A. W. Mailvaganam stated that this committee will be chiefly concerned with the development of the University and it would submit to the parliament the various needs including financial requirements in detail. It would thus avoid interference in the functioning of the University by the Politicians. Such Committees as the one mentioned above have been established in India and U. K.
Prof. P. K. Chanmugam on behalf of the council moved the resolution «That the Council of the T. U. M. urges the Ceylon Government to convert immediately the Jaffna Civil Hospital into a Teaching Hospital’’.
Sir Kanthiah Vaithianathan moved a resolution that the General Meeting of the T. U. M. authorises the council to pay to Navalar Hall the sum of Rs. 20,000/- to settle liabilities incurred by way of purchase of scientific equipment and library books for the Navalar Hall.
It also sanctions the payment of honorarium to the Visiting Lecturers at the rate of Rs. 10/- per lecture only and authorise the council of the movement to underwrite any deficit that may be incurred in this respect to the extent not exceeding Rs. 30,000/- per year.

Page 65
108
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
The new office boares for the ensuing year were elected. The Movement was very happy that for the last 3 years since its inception the Tamil speaking people of the country have accepted the Movement without any other body challenging its authority as the only body which is actively sponSoring University Education for the Tamil speaking people. Its set up did not make it a tribal institution of higher studies. It is running a college of higher studies -- Navalar Hall in Colombo, It has laid the foundation stone for the University in Trincomalee, where certain faculties (Engineeringetc) will function. It was decided on places for other faculties, Some to be located at Vantharumullai in Batticaloa. Other faculties, Law, Medicine, Education, Religious, Art, Cultures etc. io Jaffna and so on, This scheme had been fully accepted by the Leaders of the Tamil speaking people, by the politicians, religious bodies, educationists and the Heads of Local Bodies (Chairmen of U. D. C and Village Committees) all over the country.
There has been no indication of dissidents or rival mischief makers appearing in the horizon to challenge the unanimous demand of the Tamil speaking people. We were very happy that our movement had succeeded in uniting all sections of the Tamil speaking people by the manner it had planned the sitiog of the University and its various Faculties. It had thus laid the foundation for the unity of the Tamil Speaking People.
The fisrt meeting of the newly elected council met on Friday 17th of July 1959. Prof. A. W. Mailvaganam was unanimously elected chairman of the council.
Among other matters pertaining to the Navalar Hall it considered a programme of work for the ensuing year in respect of (a) propaganda (b) cnrolment of new full members and associate members (c) collection of funds (d) preparation of plans and estimates for the Tamil University Buildings.
The chairman intimated that a letter from the Hon. Minister of Education that we should arrange a meeting shortly with the Hon. Prime Minister to discuss the subject
of a University for the Tamil speaking peopls was read.

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
109
The Trincomalee Regional Committee was requested to furnish details and under receipts in respect of the expenditure ncurred in connection with the purchase of land at Inner Harbour Road.
It was decided to take up the question of the appointment of a New Principal of Navalar Hall at the next meeting. The question of purchase of land at Uppuveli would be considered after one month. In the meantime the Trincomalee Regional Committee will be requested to collect the deeds and examine them.
| A. Sub Committee consisting of M/3. T. Rajadurai, K. C. Nithiyananda, K. V. S. Vas. and S. Selvaratnam was appointed to report on a suitable programme of work in respect of propaganda, enrolment of new members and collection of money for the building fund. A Sub Committee consisting of Messrs K. C. Nithiyananda, M. Mathiaparanam and K. Sivanantha Sundaram was appointed to work out a scheme for increasing associate members. Each member was requested to ensure almost 5 full members before the next meeting of the council. The Batticaloa Regional Committee was granted permission for staging a play in aid of the T. U. M.
A Sub Committee consisting of Mr. M. Thiruchelvam, Prof. A. Sinnathamby, Mr. R. Rajaratnam, Prof. A. W. Mailvaganam, Mr. C. Rasiah and Mr. S. A. David was appointed to prepare the plans and estimates for the T. U. M.
The next meeting of the Council met on 1st of August 1959. The following were elected life members of the T. U. M. Dr. W. S. Nathaniel, Mr. C. Thiagalingam, Mr. M. K. Subramaniam and Mr. A. Mahesan. Sir Kanthiah Vaithianathan's resignation from the post of Principal of Navalar
Hall was accepted by the council.
The lease of Navalar Hall premises have been extended for a further period of 3 years. The President (ex office), the Chairman of the Council (ex office), Prof. A. Sinnathamby. Prof. P. K. Chanmugam, Mr.K, V. S. Vas and Mr. C. Rasiah

Page 66
110
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
were elected to the Board of Trustees. The following were elected to the Board of Governors of Navalar Hall: His Lordship Rev. S. Kulendran, Ref. Fr. A. E. Crowther, Justice N. Sinnathamby, Mr. M. Thiruchelvam, Prof. P. K. Chanmugam and Mr. C. Rasiah.
The following were elected to represent the council of the T. U. M. at the Academic Council of Navalar Hall;
M/S. K. A. Selliah, C. Balasingam, Dr. K. Arumugam. The following were elected to represent the Tamil Speaking People of Ceylon at the Academic Council: Messrs. M. M. I. Kariappar, S. Ambalavanar and Miss. N. Kasipillai.
It was decided to invite Mr. E. B. Anketel to accept the post of Principal of Navalar Hall.
The report of the Building Sub-Committee was adopted by the Council. It was decided to conduct a contour survey and soil test in respect of the land at Trincomalee, to construct a plastic model of the proposed University Buildings for propaganda purposes and to appoint a Draftsman.
The report of the Propaganda and Building Sub-Committee was adopted by the Council. It was decided to issue a new bulletin outlining the activities of the movement once in 3 months. Pandit K. P. Ratnam was to take charge of this. A committee consisting of Messrs T. Rajadurai, M. Thiruchelvam, S. M. A. Jamaludeen, A. Shanmuganathan, S. Selvaratnam and Prof. A. Sinnathamby was appointed to organise a propaganda and collection tour through out the country. Mr. A. Selliah and Rev. Fr. A. B. Crowther were requested to contact the Teachers' Associations in the Northern and Eastern provinces and to organise the propaganda. A Million Rupee Building Fund is to be launched. A committee consiSting of Professors A. Sinnathamby, P. K. Chanmugam, A. A. Hoover, A. W. Mailvaganam and Mr. M. Thiruchelvam was elected to meet the Hon. Minister of Health to discuss the question of converting the Jaffna Civil Hospital into a
Reaching Hospital.

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
111
The sub Committee's report to work out a scheme to increase the number of the associate members was adopted by the council. Some of the Sub Committees were asked to implement the recommendations made. Mr. M. Vairavapillai
was appointed to audit the accounts of Navalar Hall for the last financil year.
At a meeting of the council held on 22-8-59 it was stated that Mr. E. B. Anketell bas kindly accepted the post of Principal for Navalar Hall. It was also stated that the coupons in connection with the Million Rupee Fund would bo ready before the next meeting of the council.
Tho Lccla Press has kindly volunteered to undertake the printing works for the movement free of charge. It was also decided to take the necessary action to have the Tamil University Movement registered under the society's ordinance.
The Prime Minister of Ceylon Hon. Mr. W. R. D. Bandaranayake was assasinated on Sept. 26th 1959. This tragedy disrupted the continuity of our talks with him, about the setting up of -a Full-fledged University for the Tamil Speaking People. At a meeting held on 7-10-59. Mr. Thiruchelvam undertook to have the deeds of the lands purchased at Inner Harbour Road, Trincomallee registered at the Land Registry.
Three members of the council-Prof. A. Sinnathamby, Messrs M. Thiruchelvam and Mr. R. Rajaratnam were appointed to meet the members of the Trincomalee Regional body and negotiate the purchase of the lands at Uppuveli and if necessary enter into a sales agreement.
It was stated that certain amendments to the constitution will have to be made before the movement could be registered which will be suggested at the next meeting.
Mr. S. Natesan and the Cultural University.
Soon after the death of Hon.Mr.S.W.R.D.Bandaranayake certain developments in the thinking of the Hindu Educationists of Jaffna happened, At the opening of the Buddhist Cultural Universities-Vidylankara • and Vidyodaya, the late

Page 67
112
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
Premier made a statement that if Tamils wanted a University be was prepared to consider the matter. He knew very well that the Tamil speaking people of Ceylon unitedly through their Tamil University Movement for the last 3 years had pressed for a full fledged University in which the Hindu Culture will be fostered in addition to the other religious cultures of the Tamil speaking people and had interviews with him on this matter. They had told him their view that a Cultural University would not meet all the other aspirations of theirs, which latter were vitally important in connection with their language and economic prosperity and their continued existance as Tamil speaking people of the country.
We had been told by him to await the Needham Commission's report. At a meeting of the Board of Directors of ParameSwara College Mr. S. Natesan stated at the inauguration of the Vidyalankara University the late Mr. S. W. R. D. Bandaranayake himself expressed the desire that the Hindus shouid have similar institutions. It was then at the instance of the Board of Directors that he had made the proposal to the late Prime Minister that he was prepared to offer Parameswara College and Ramanathan College to the State of Ceylon for a Hindu University to be set up."
The Prime Minister expressed sympathy for the idea and requested him to wait until the report of the University Commission. He was sincere in this as a University for the Tamils is the concern of the Tamil speaking people at large and they had put their views unitedly through tbc Tamil University Movement. I wonder what the late Sir Ponnambalam Ramanathan wold lave said about the offer made by Mr. S. Natesan to the Prime Minister as the latter had failed to develop these Colleges into post graduate Colleges. Sir Ponoambalam Ramanathan had personally seen in America during his tour of that country how the two great American Universities Yale and Harvard, from their small beginnings, had blossomed into big institutions, solely due to the effort of the foundere of those Colleges. His travels in America provide ample evidence that he had made a study of the development of these great American Colleges. Mr. Natesan may be a good Tamil. lod Saiva Siddhantha Scholar. Instead of developing these

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
113
two great institutions he mixed up politics with education As a Politician he was a frustrated one and as an educationist he kept himself aloof from the great educationsts amongst the Tamil speaking people and from the current of educational thought of the other educationists amongst the Tamil
people.
Later when the acting Prime Minister Hon. Mr. W. Dahanayake assumed office on Oct. 1959, Mr. Natesan stated at the same meeting of the Board of Directors of Parameswara College, *‘I referred the proposal to him and on his invitation I discussed it with him. He expressed his acceptance of the idea but hinted that the difficulty in the way was the Tamil University Movement. He wished to know whether we could not come to some argument among ourselves. This is the present position."
He did not have the courage and the decency to meet the great leaders of the people headed by the Hindu Educationist and statesman Sri Waitilingam Doraisamy and the other leading University Educationists headed by Prof. A.W. "Mailvaganam. He should have had a dialoque with them before handing over these Hindu Institutions to the state.
He was now considered by the people as discredited politician very keen on getting rid of his responsibilities and getting back to his people in India.
The acting Prime Minister Hon Mr. W. Dahanayake was waiting for a situation like this which had not sprung up for the last 3 years, as there was only one strong organi station which was sponsoring University education amongst the Tamil speaking people which included Hindu Culture and Civiliation..
When the Tamil University Movement came to know of this move of Mr. S. Natesan and the Hindu Educational Society sponsored by him standing suddenly in the way of. the Tamils getting a 'Full University''. Prof. A. W. Mail-. vagaham. stated*“It is not desirable that there should be a çift, amongst the Tamil speaking pepole in their objective of. founding a University for themselves. The Tamil University

Page 68
114
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
movement alone can claim to speak up for the Tamil speaking people – whether the Tamils are from the North or East or from other parts of Ceylon or whether they are Hindus, Christians or Muslims irrespective of their cultural and religious differences. The Movement had already begun work on such a University at Trincomalee. Why should Mr. Natesan suddenly think of a Hindu Cultural University in Jaffna now. Mr. Natesan had been silent while the Members of the Movements have been working day and night. He was now trying to ruin thoir efforts by proposing a Hindu University in Jaffna''.
Prof. Mailva ganam further said "we had considered the site where this University had to be established very seriously and eventually, we selected Trincomalee as the site best for the University; The reason was that the Tamils did not want to establish ‘a factory' to 'manufacture degrees' only. We must advance our economic position and ways of doing this will have to be found. Agriculture, Veterinary Science, Technological Studies, Marine Engineering including Ship Building. Deepsea Fishing. Industries, Technology all will have to be taught. Institutions that have been built due to the efforts of private organisations can be affiliated to this University. Hindu, Christian or Muslim Cultural Institutions can be affiliated to the University. It was after serious consideration that the movement selected Trincomalee to site the University to achicve its objectives.
The members of the movement will shortly ask for an interview with the Prime Ministar with the view to seeking Government assistance for the Trincomalee Institution. The spokesman of the University Movement further said that now the Prime Minister had agreed to the principle of a Tamil University and the work on the Tamil University in Trincomalee had progressed satisfactorily, there was no reason for the Prime Minister to refuse them assistance. The Tamil University Movement will not join Mr. S. Natesan in submisting a memorandum to the Prime Minister about the establishncnt of the Tamil University in Jafina. Mr. M. Thiruchelvan * a meeting at Trincomalee stated t•The Tamil Speakag

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
115
People should not think in terms of Government Service in future. Government service had killed their incentive and enterprise. The education of the Tamil Children should be such that they become Agriculturists and Industrialists and the future of the Tamils depends on the iniative taken by them'?•
| Many thought that Mr. Natesan need not hav offered Parameswara College for the purpose of the Cultural University. The Government could have built one for the purpose of the Cultural University as it had done at Kelaniya and Gangodavila, to site the Buddhist Universities. A historie institution that Sir Ponnampalam Ramanathan designed and built at great expense to see the hundreds of children who ente rits portals annually at their young age and get inculcated in
Hindu Religion and the Tamil Language in addition to other branches of knowledge (vide his Trust) is now being "simply offered to the Government'. He could have asked the Government to put up separate buildings for the purpose of the Cultural University. People thought that he had betrayed the Trust and deprived thousands of children not only of the present period but also of the future of an education with a Hindu and Tamių background.
As the educationists and the leaders of the people were dissatisfied with Mr. Natesan's actions-he Mr. Natesan explained his position in a letter to the Times of Ceylon on 6-11-59. The letter was as follows:-
University in Jaffna "
In order to avoid any possible misunderstanding about the scope of the request made by me recently to the Prime Minister for a University to be established in Jaffna. I wish to quote the following portion of my letter to him:-
“I am writing to inform you that in July last I had an opportunity of interviewing the late lamentd Prime Minister in connection with a request from the Board of Parameswara College of which I am the President, that a University to be named Ramanathan Uuiversity be established in Jaffna to serve especially the cause of Tamil and Hindu

Page 69
16
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
Culture. He was good enough to tell me that he was Inclined to consider the request favourably and asked me to
wait till to report of the University Commission was. published'.
I should like to add, that the proposal was moved in pursunce of a statemont made by the late Prime Minister that he was prepared to consider and request by the Tamils for a Cultural University. It will be remembered that he had earlier dcelined to accedo to the request of the sponsors of the T. U. M - S. Natesan.
The Times of Ceylon of 9-11-59 in its editorial stated **The need for expansion of the University facilities to which reference was made at a recent meeting of the University Court admits of no debate. The inadequacy of the facilities. of higher education has been evident for quite a number of years In proportion to her population and comparison with the need for development of the country, the accomodation available at Ceylon's only real University is admittedly meagre and students are shut-out not because they are unfit for university education but because they cannot be accomodated. This is most noticeable n the Science, Engineering and Medical faculties, of the University. If that is the situation wheu education is confined to the English educated condidates it will deteriorate considerably from next year when swabasha educated pupils become eligible for admission to the University. Every whit as important as the expansion of University facilities is the maintenance of the highest academic standards. We must have more universities but they must be Universities in the accepted sense of the term -no cram shops, degree factories or institutions which are Universities, only in name...
If the question of expanding University education is not to be a mere matter of pious resolution for the next 25 years as the question of setting up a second Mcdical College has been for the past 25 years more serious consideration must be given to it now and suitable action initiated. Such consideration and action could be considerably assisted if Needham Report which deals with this among other important questions is published now. That there is violent disagreement on several

"The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
117
points between the local member of the commission and his colleagues from abocad ceased to be a secret long ago. But the Governmet is fighting shy of publishing it immediately as it should both reports. why?."
1. Vidwans of the Arya-Dravida Sangam wanted a Tamil
Cultural University and not a Hindu Cultural University.
2. The aging and debilitated Saiva Paripalana Sabai
wanted a Hindu University.
Pandithamani K. Kanapathipillai the veteran Tamil and Hindu scholar of Jaffna stated at a meeting of the North Ceylon Teachers' Association held on 12-12-59 ‘to consider Trincomalee as the most suitable site in the island to set up a University for the Tamil Speaking People of Ceylon. It is religiously hallowed. It should be the one for the Tamil Speaking People, Mr. Natesan could have started a Hindu Cultural College at Parameshwara College long years back "I am not in favour of Parameswara College being handed over to Government. 29
He said furtherthat one of the functions of this University will be to conduct studies to raising the economic prosperity of the Tamil people and to train bonest leadership.
The University at Trincomalee should further the growth of the Tamil Language and the Cultural Heritage of the Tamil people".
The North Ceylon Teachers' Association extended its whole hearted unanimous support to the Tamil University Movement's activities.
The members of Parliament who represent to Tamil areas wrote a letter to Prime Minister on the 30th Nov. 1959. It was as follows:-
The Honourable Prime Minister,
We the undersigned Members of Parliament bave great pleasure in informing you that we are in support of the

Page 70
118
The Diary of the Tamil University Movemet
demands of the Tamil Speaking People for a fully fledged University at Trincomalce which will eventually teach in Tamil medium and request you, to be so good as to make the accessary financial provision for the catbliment of the said University. Signed. P. Kandiah, Mr. Ethirmannasingam, Mr.S.J.V. Chelvanayagam, Mr.c. Rajadurai, Mr. A.Alagakone, Mr. M. Macan Marker, V. A. Kandiah. Mr. Mohamed Ali.....
The Chairmen of the various local bodies in the Northern 20e Eastern province sent this letter to the Prime Minister. The letter is as follows:-
The Honourable Prime Minister,
We are addresing yon on the subject of the Tamil University because we have been informed that it is your dosire that the Tamil speaing people should agree on the site of the proposed University and that you are prepared to give immediate recognition and financial aid to a University for the Tamil speaking people where the medium of instruction will be the Tamil Language.
We the undersigned wish to inform you that we are im active sympathy with the Tamil University Movemen, and desire that the Tamil University should be established in Trincomalee where the foundation stones have already been laid.
Almost all the Chairmen of the various. Village Committees, Urban Councils sprawling over the entire Tamil speaking areas in the North and Eastern Provinces signed this letter. The number who signed totalled 98 Heads, of Local Bodies.
Thus the Tamil University Movement reinforced its elaims that it represents all the people in the Tamil speaking areas, which included The Tamil Members of Parliament, Chairmen of Urban Councils Chairmen of Village Committees. almost all the Teachers teaching in the Tamil Medium in all the Towns and villages, a good number of Hindu Principals and Tamil Principals of other Religious Denomi

"The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
119
nations, the entire Medical Professions, almost all the Members of the Legal Profession including Magistrates, Judges and Supreme Court Judges, Civil Servants and
Members of the University Teaching staff.
Against this vast concourse of representative men there were Mr. S. Natesan, a discredited Hindu Politician and his associates of a handful Hindu Tamil Principals and Members of a few defunct and non-functioning. Hindu Socielies resuscitated or formed for the occasion. That was the situation in November 1959. These latter wanted a Hindu University of the type of Vidyalankara and Vidyodaya Buddhist Universities which offered an education to obtain B. A., M. A. & P. H. D. degrees in Tripitaks Buddhist Studies (B. A. T., M. A. T. & P. H. D.). The Buddhist religion is kept alive by the Buddhist Monks. Where as the Hindu Religion is kept alive by the Hindu Tamil People in their Hindu Temples and in their daily lives. Mr. Natesan was not concerned with the other studies that were necessary for the advancement of his brothers and sisters speaking the Tamil Language. Mr. Natesan and few of the Hindu Principals and few of the Hindu Public Men of Jaffna were probably happy in the thought that the higher education can be. securely confined to the English educated top stratum of the Jaffna Peninsula.
Prof. A. W. Mailvaganam In a letter to the Times of Ceylon which appeared on 13.11.1959 reported that the statement made by Mr. S. Natesan “that the late Prime Minister had earlier declined to accede to the reqnest of the sponsors of the Tamil University Movement and stated that Mr Natesan has completely misinformed himself in this matter. His letter to the Times of Ceylon on 13. 11.59 is as followa:
The Tamil University Movement was inaugurated in June 1956. Towards the end of that year the organisers of the movement wrote to the late Prime Minister requesting an interview in order to state the case for a university for the Tamil Speaking Peopl of Ceylon.

Page 71
120
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
On January 14th 1957 we met the late Prime Minister by appointment and presented our case. At that meeting. Mr. W. Dahanayake, the then Minister of Education and and Mr. L. J. De. S. Seneviratne, Special Commissioner for Official Language Affairs were present. Mr. Bandaranayake offered us a Cultural University but we did not want a University piece meal. We reiterated our request for a full University. There upon Mr. Bandaranayake suggested that we might if we wished, submit to him our scheme for a University for the Tamil Speaking people.
A considered scheme was submitted by the Movement and the late Primer Minister and we had an interview on Sept. 18th 1957, At the meeting Mr. Dahanayake and Mr. Seneviratne were again present. After a discussion Mr. Bandaranayake informed us that he had appointed a Commission with Dr. Needham, as Chairman to inquire into and report on University Education in Ceylon in all its aspects including Linquistic and Regional Universities. He therefore suggested that we shall present our case to the Commission when it commenced its sittings. This was done.
When awaiting the University Commissions' Report we were pleased to read in the press a statement made by Mr. Bandaranayake at the inauguration of the Vidyodaya University of Ceylon in which he mentioned that if the Tamils desired a Tamil University the Government would give its most sympathetic consideration to their request.
Our Movement was so much encouraged by the late Premiers” statement that we requested him to give us a date when we might see him once again and present our case, Our request was acknowledged by Hon. Mr. Bandaranayake and he wrote to us that he would give a date but unfortunately his untimely death supervened.
However in reply to my letter of October 3rd. 1959, I received a letter from the Permanent Secretary to the Prime Minister which stated as follows: “I am directed that the matter (Tamil University) is under consideration and will be dealt with when the report of the University Commission is takenup'

FThe Diary of the Tamil University Movement
121
It will thus be seen that at no stage in the course of our. negotiations with the Government during the past 27 years has the Government declined to accede to the request of the sponsors of the Tamil University. Movement’”.
In September 1959 the contents of the Needham Commission Report were out; although its publication and release as a sessional paper took place in November 1959. It was not an unanimous report. The Foreign Members were of one view, but the Ceylon Member Mr L. G. D. S. Seneviratne whose appointment as a Member of the Commission was not desired by the Tamil University Movement on account of various traces he was noted for, was of a different view.
Prof. Needham and Prof S. K. Chatterjee expressed strong views against the grants of - full university status to the Pirivena Universities. Prof. Needham stated that he is strongly opposed to the grant of full university status to any of these colleges. I am not prepared to be a party eventually to the setting up of • bogus Universities.'
Prof. Chatterjee stated--**It would be a great mistake to make them full fledged universities because it will cut across the principle, that the university must have no caste, creed and linguistic barriers and must be open to all citizens
of whatever sex.
In case it is proposed to make them full fledged universities the claim for a Tamil University with emphasis on Tamil culture, philosophy and even religious systems cannot be replaced on any basis of equality and justice''.
These two members denounced the proposal to the introduction of quota systems for entrance--These will lead to various problems in the university.
A list of other evils of far reaching character which will operate against national integrity and communal accord will result. No party will be satisfied with the quotas allotted and with each group the claimsfor sub quotas will immediately

Page 72
122
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
issue. The differences which are denoted will raise their head and the ultimate result will be the dismemberment of the country'".
As regards the expansion of the university education they recommended that two new Campuses of the University of Ceylon be established at an early date at Colombo and Jaffna.
The admission to the universities should be on the basis of merit.
The year 1959 ended with political upheavals in the country after Mr. Bandaranayakes' death, The atmosphere was not favourable to enlarge the movement and for the launching of the building fund drive. The standards of Navalar Hall will have to be raised more so that it might function as a university until the buildings of the university come up.
The year 1960 saw the movement vigorously active in fur thering the movement; additional acres of land at Uppuveli had been - purchased and steps are being taken to purchase another fifty acres. The Regional Committees were reorganised. The necessary funds will have to be collected to build the University. More men and women workers of the movement have left lhe country for various reasons.
A memorandum has been already presented to the Minister of Health regarding a Medical College in Jaffna and no further action has been taken by the Government. Our chief task in 1960 was (i) to collect about 10 lakhs of rupees from the people in the course of the year and make the university takes shape. More regionalcommittees will have to be set up. (ii). We must press the Government to open a Medical School in Jaffna.
At a meeting held on the 30th of April 1960, the General Secretary was given a mandate to take charge of the acquisition proceedings relating to the lands at Uppuveli. It was decided to defer all propaganda meetings in the Northern and Eastern provinces. New Regional Committees are to be

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
123
set up in the Jaffna District. It was decided to hold the Annual Meeting on the 30th of July 1960. At a meeting held on the 28th of May 1960 the Secretary stated that the task of correcting the title deeds of the lands at Trincomalee has been entrusted to two proctors. It was expected that about 60 acres of land would be purchased before the end of June 1960. In view of the shortage of funds available at present it was decided to put up prefabricated buildings at Uppuveli for the Tamil University. As a first step it has been decided to set up Carpentry and Cement
Work shops for the purpose of manufacturing the neccesary cement bricks and timber. The estimated cost of this work shop will be Rs. 80,000/-. The Council decided to recommend to the T. U. M. the putting up of prefabricated buildings at Uppuveli. It was decided to write to the Registrar of Navalar Hall to ask the Board of Governors to go into the question of managing Navalar Hall without any financial assistance from the T. U. M., if needed by raising the fees from students.
The Fourth Annual General Meeting was held on the 30th July 1960. There was the presentation of the Annual Report by the General Secretary, and the presentation of the statement of the Accounts and the Auditor's report by the Hony. Treasurer. The Registrar of Navalar Hall presented the report on Navalar Hall.
Certain amendments to the section 4 of the consititution were made. The subscription of a full member shall be Rs. 10/- per month or Rs. 120/ - per year. The subscription of an associate member shall be Rs. 5/- per month (but not shall be less than Rs. 2/ - per month). The membership of a member (who defaults payment for a period of 3 months will be terminated at the discretion of the Council.
(ii) Section 5:- 75 members of whom at least 60 shall be full members.
The Chairman of the Council on behalf of the Council will move the following resoluțion:-

Page 73
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
**This general meeting of the T. U. M. resolves that in the event of funds being inadequate the buildings of the low construction type be erected at Trincomalee as first step towards the construction of buildings for the T. U. M.
The Office Bearers for the ensuing year were elected.
*The first meeting of the newly elected council was held on 13th "of August 1960. In addition to matters pertaining the Navalar
Hall, the election of Officers to the Board of Governors and the Academic Council of Navalar Hall were considered.
The programmes of work for the ensuing year in respect of (i) propaganda (ii) collection of funds (iii) enrolment of new members were considered.
The members of the Movement were requested to send their suggestions. A special meeting was held on 3rd of September 1960, to consider in addition to other ma ters, the report of the sub-commlttee appointed to examine the tax relating to the fands of the movement. A resolution was moved by Prof. K. Kanapathipillai. This Council resolvesthat immediate steps be taken to start the university for the Tamil speaking people of Ceylon by establishing the Arts and Oriental Faculties first at Trincomalee without any further delay''.
| Three Sub-committees on Finance, Buildings and Staff were appointed to examine the question and submit a report for the consideration of the Council before a special meeting. of the Movement could be summoned to obtain the necessary sanction for the proposal.
"At a meeting of the Council held on 28th of September 1960 it was decided that a memorandum should be sent to the Hon. Minister of Justice requesting him to be good onough to make an order in terms of section 114 of the Trusts Ordinance (authorising the inco-operation of the Tamil University Movement.)

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
125
The reports of the various Sub-committees appointed to submit reports regarding the Arts Faculty at Trincomalee were considered and a resolution was moved by Mr. T. Rajadurai that this Council resolves that with a view to conserving the funds of the movement for the erection of the buildings of the T.U.M. at Trincomalee the constitution of the Navalar Hall be suspended and the Institution administrated by a Sub-committee of the Council until such time as the Institution becomes self supporting.
The memorandum to the Minister of Justice requesting him to authorise the inco-operation of the Trustees of the T. U. M. was sent on the 15th of Oct. 1960.
The Minister of Justice subsequently, authorised the incooperation of the Trustees.
The Chairman of the Council had written to the Prime Minister that a deputation of the Movement desires to see her to state the case for the establishment of a university for the Tamil speaking people of Ceylon. The Hon. Prime Minister agreed to receive a deputation on 25-2-61 at Temple Trees. The deputation consisted of Prof. A. W. Mailvaganam, Mr. M. Thirucholvam, Prof. A. Sinnathamby, Prof. K. Kanapathipillai, Mr. Murugesn-Attorney-at-law and Prof.P.K. Chanmugam. Associated with the Prime Minister were Mr. Jinadasa, Permanent Secretary to the Minister of Education and Mr. S. F. de Silva of the Ministry of Education. Prof Mailvaganam stated that the request for a University for the Tamil speaking people of Ceylon, was not only backed by the Tamil University Movement but also by the Tamil Members of the Parliament representing the Tamil speaking people and also by the Chairmen of Urban District Councils and Village Committees in the Tamil Speaking areas and to substantiato thcae claims, the documents signed by the Members of - Parliament, and Chairmen of various Urban District Councils and Village Committees were shown to the Prime Minister.
The Chairman of the deputation pointed out that the Ramanatban College and Parameswara College, according to the trust deed of Sir Ramanathan, can only be utilised for

Page 74
126
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
ehe education of the Hindu children and that it cannot be converted into a Hindu University. The deputation requested the Prime Minister to grant 40 lakhs of rupees for the setting up of this University and if this cannot be granted at least to grant Rs. 20 lakhs for the running of the University.
But Mr. Jinadasa pointed out that the Needham Commission had only recommended that a University campus should be set up in Jaffna. In reply to this statement of his, the deputation stated that the Needham Commission has completely neglected the educational interests of the people in the Eastern Province and one of the ways to raise the economic and educational level of the people in this Province is to establish ibe University at Trincomalee.
To this Mr. Jinadasa stated that it was possible to Convert the Parameswaral College and the Ramanathan College into a University. Prof. Mailvagapam stated that it is possible only to convert these two colleges into a Hindu Cultural College for, according to the trust of these colleges the institutions are for the promotion of the Hindu Religion and Tamil Studies and for the education of the Hindu children.
Prof. Mailvagapam inquired from the Prime Minister Srimavo Bandaranayake whether she has accepted the proposal of Mr. S. Natesan for a Hindu University to be set up at Ramanathan and Parameswara Colleges for which purpose, he was prepared to hand over these two Colleges to the Government, In reply she categorically denied that she has not given any such assurance to Mr. Natesan that she would do 80. Further abe added that she would consult the Minister of Education and send a reply to the T. U. M. Further details of the Gonference are stated in the Annual report of the Movement. for the year 1961,

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
127
Report of the period August 1, 1960 to March 15, 1962 The Fifth Annual General Meeting that should have beer! held in July, 1961, had to be postponed owing to the unsettled conditions prevailing in the country at that time. For the same reason, it has not been possible to make substantial progress in $hc achievement of the objectives of the Movement.
CHANGES IN THE COUNCIL:
Sir Waitilingam Duraisamy President of the Movement vince its inception, resigned on account of ill-health, The Tarmi University Movement is deeply - indebted to Sir Waitilingam Duraisamy for the valuable guidance given by him during th? period of his service as President. The Council unanimously elected Prof. A. W: Mailvaganam to fill the resulting vacancye Prof. A. Sinnathamby was elected Chairman of the Council,
Rev. Fr. S. Thaninayagam, O.M.I. and Mr. N. Manicaka. Idaikkadar, C. C. S., two of our active members left Ceylon consequent to their accepting-appointments in the University of Malaya. The Council records with appreciation the valuable services rendered by these two members.
Mr. S. Velupillai, Chartered Accountant, Mr. U. Selladurai, Lecturer, Ceylon Technical College and Mr. A. Ragunather. Retired Lecturer, Ceylon Technical College, were elected to fils threo vacancies in the Council..
We record with regret the passing away of Mr. K. Mathiaparanam, an active member of the Council who had rendered very valuable services to the Movement.
LIFE MEMBERS:
Dr.S. Subramaniam, Retired Provincial Surgeon, Jaffna and Dr. (Mrs.) Malathi Rajasingham were elected Life Members of the Movement, the former for having donated Rs. 2,000/- and the latter for outstanding services rendered to the Movement.
FINANCES,
The financial resources of the Movement consist of the subscriptions from members, and associate members and of

Page 75
128
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
donations received towards the Building Fund. Owing to reasons mentioned earlier, it has not been possibie to organise propaganda meetings to enroll more members and to launch a campaign for the collection of funds. In September 1960, the Council inaugurated a scheme for the collection of funds by the sale of coupons, bur the progrees made in this direction has not been appreciable. It is felt that further measures should be taken and Council therefore appeals for the active support and co-operation of all members to
make the campaign a success. Details of the scheme will be formulated and circulated among the members in due course..
In February 1961, Miss. Parameswary Param, M. A. of the staff of Vembadi Girls' High School, Jaffna, gaveamusic recital under the distinguished patronage of Dr. S. Subramaniam, in aid of the Tamil University Movement. Prof.A.W. Mailvaganam and Mr. S. Selvaratnamn were present at the recital and spoke on some aspects of the work of the Movement. The collection by sale of tickets amounted to about Rs. 7,000/- we wish to express our sincere thanks to Miss Param for this benovelent gesture The Council is also grateful to Mr. and Mrs. A. B. Rajasingham, Miss. Mabel Thambiyah, Dr. (Mrs.) P Thuraiappah, Mr. and Mrs. Sathialingam and other voluntary workers for the valuable services rendered in successfully organising the recital. FACULTY OF AGRICULTURE:
At a Special General Meeting held on February 18, 1961 the Movement approved the constrction of buildings in the lands purchased for the purpose at Trincomalee. Council was authorised to take the necessary steps to commence classes in July 1962 in one or more of the Faculties of Arts, Science and Engineering and any other Faculty as may be deemed feasible by the Council. Though the Council had originally decided to commence work on the Arts Faculty at Trincomalee, the decision had to be reviewed in view of certain developments that had taken place subsequently viz., the intention of the Government to establish a Cultural University at Jaffna as announced in the Press and the decision of the University of Ceylon to confer external degrees and the decision to gradually stop all external examinations of the University of London. In view of the changed circumstances. Council felt that no useful puropose would be served in establishing.

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
129
in the first instance, the Faculties of Arts and Science at Trincomalee. Further Council feared that Govement would not recognize the degrees and diplomas conferred by the proposed Arts and Science Faculties. Secondly since education at the proposed Cultural University in Jaffna will be free and since the degrees and diplomas confered by that University will receive Government recognition, students will naturally prefer to seek admission there.
Council was therefore of opinion that in the first instance a Faculty of Agriculture should be established at Trincomalee. It was decided to start a School of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry at Uppuveli in July, 1952 which would serve as the nucleus of the proposed Faculty of Agriculture of the Tamil University. It is proposed to teach for the time being the necessary skills and know how and to impart such training as to enable students of the school to set up on their own. Council feels that this step is very vital in the programme of economic development of the Tamil speaking areas of Ceylon. The School will be situated at Uppuveli where nearly 80 acres of land have been purchased. A soil test and contour survey of the land have already been completed and building operations will commence soon. An Academic Committee appointed for the purpose is drafting the syllabus for the courses of study to be conducted and it is hoped to admit the first batch of students in July, 1962.
RESIDENT AGENT:
Council has with effect from January 23, 1962, appointed Mr. K. S. Selladurai as Resident Agent of the Movement at Trinbcmalee. This appointment became necessary with the increase in the volume of work in connetion with the maintenance of the lands purchased for the Movement and the supervision of the building construction and other duties.
NAVALAR HALL:
Though the Movement had agreed earlier to underwrite any deficit that may be incurred in the management of Navalar Hall to the extent not exceeding Rs. 30,000/- per year, Council felt that with a view to conserving the funds of the Movement for its

Page 76
130
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
programme at Trincomalee, it was necessary that Navalar Hall should be run on an economic basis as far as possible. With this in mind the Constitution of Navalar Hall was suspended in July. 1961,, and the administration of the Institution was vested in a Board of Management appointed by the Council.
The Board consists of the following:-
1. Mr. T. Rajathurai (Chairman) 2. Mr. S. Selvaratnam (Member) 3. Mr. C. Kandasamy (Member) 4. Mr. V. Murugesu (Member)
Council is happy to announce that the Board of Management has been able to manage Navalar Hall without any need for financial assistance from the Movement. The Board felt that Navalar Hall could be run profitably provided a full time paid Registrar was appointed to attend to the day to day administration of the Institution. On the recommendation of the Board of Management the Council of the Movement has been pleased to appoint Mr.P Kathiravelupillai, Deputy Registrar of the Supreme Court as Registrar of Navalar Hall on his retirement from the Public Service on June 10, 1962, Mr. Kathiravelupillai will also function as the Administrative Assistant to the Tamil University Movement. A full report on the working of Navalar Hall was presented
INTERVIEW WITH THE HONOURABLE PRIME MINISTER:
A deputation from the Movement led by Prof. A.W. Mailvaganam met the Honourable Srimavo Bandaranaike, Primo
Minister, on February 25, 1961 to place before her the case for a separate University for the Tamil Speaking People of Ceylon at Trincomalee. The Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Education was asociated with the Prime Minister at the interview. Neither the Honourable Minister of Education nor the Honourable Minister of Finance was present. The deputation referred to previous interviews with the late Prime Minister and urged an initial grant of Rs. 4,000,000/- for buildings and Rs.2,000,000/- annually for recurrent expenditure. The deputation also pointed out that if Government found it difficult to meet the

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
131
capital expenditure on buildings, the buildings at Fort Frederick and Fort Ostonburg at Trincomalee may be made available for the Tamil University Movement to start its classes pending the construction of permant - buildings. In the alternative, the deputation suggested that the Movement was prepard to put up the buildings and that the Government gives an annual grant of Rs. 2,000,000/- for recurrent expenditure. The deputation Elso told the Honourable Prime Minister that the Movement had the support of the Members of Parliament and Chairmen of the Local Bodies in the Tamil speaking areas of Ceylon. The Honourable Prime Minister promised to consult the Honourable Minister of Education and communicate with the Movement. The reply received from the Prime Minister, dated December 13, 1961 is as follows: -
Dear Professor Mailvaganam,
I write with reference to your letter of 2nd March 1961 regarding the establislment of a Tamil University at Trincomalec.
I have obtained the views of my Minister of Education on this proposal and he has observed that the Needham University Commission has recommended the establishment of a University at Jaffna and that in those circumstances there does not appear to be a need for another Tamil University at Trincomalee.
He has futher pointed out that the poliey of the late Prime Minister, which you refer to in your memorandum, was to set up Universities on a cultural basis like the Vidyodaya and Vidyalankara Universities. The proper course of action would therefore be to set up a Hindu Cultural University to promote the Tamil Language and Tamil Culture rather than a Tamil University. As you know, the proposal is already before the Cabinet to catablish a Hindu University.
At the present moment, the Govermment is not in a position to incur any further capital expenditure in the acquisition of land and construction of buildings for another University as it is committed to three University schemes ag

Page 77
132
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
Peradeniya, Gangoda wila and Dalugama In these circumstances, I have to regret that the Government is unable to consider your proposal at this stage''.
The President of the Movement has already sent a reply to the Honourable Prime Minister.
In all countries / of the world, national minorities baye established their own Universities for the preservation of their Languages and their Cultural traditions. In ancient times Universities were founded by Kings and Princes. The modern tendency is for Government to establish Universities. In the neighbouring Continent of India, Tamil Nad has witnessed in recent years the establishment of Universities, Colleges and Scientific Institutions by Financial and Industrial magnates of South India. By laying the foundation stone for the University in May, 1959, the Tamil Speaking people of Ceylon havề come forward to prove thay the people united and determined can establish a Universitt for themselves and by themselves.
Balance Sheet of the Tamil University Movement for the year ended 31st March 1961 and for the year ended 31st March 1962. are given below.
TAMIL UNIVERSITY MOVEMENT Receipts and Expenditure account for the year
ended 31st March 1961. To Lecture fees
25.000,00 By Donations
37,848.00 Salaries
1,897, F1
+. Subscriptons
75,888.35 Rent
2,400,00
., Sale of Coupons 2,905.00 Rates
124,39 Audit fees
500,00 Printing and Stationery 3579.55 Bank Charges
897.58 Postage
321.26 Advertising
7.44 Secretarial expenses
170.00 Servicing typewriter
4.50 Balance excess of Receipts over Expenditure for the year
81,740.00
116,641.95
116,641.95

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
133
COLOMBO, 20th. Sept. 196). Hony. Treasurer,
Sgd. M. N. Sambamurthy
Chartered Accountant.
BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31st. MARCH 1961 GENERAL FUND
LAND: As per last Balance as per last
Balance sheet 73,251.00 Balance Sheet.311,219.81
OFFICE EQUIPMENT Add axcess of
As per last receipts over
Balance Sheet
3,026.65 expenditure 81,740.12
ΙΟΑΝ ΤΟ
• NAVÁLAR HALL 20.000.00 392,959.93
SUSPENSE ACCOUNT SUNDRY CREDITORS
As per last M. N. Sambamurthy & Co. 500.00 Balance Sheet 589.50
Add expenditure during the year
1,736.00
Cash at Bank
Cash at Hand 393,459.93
2,325.50 294,539.51
317.27 393,459.93
AUDIT REPORT
The above Balance Sheet of the TAMIL UNIVERSITY MOVEMENT as at 31st March 1961 has been prepared by reference to the Cash Book, Receipts and Vouchers.
We certify that in our opinion the above Balance Sheet is properly drawn up so as to exhibit a true and correct view of the Movement's affairs + as at 31st. March 1961 according to the best of our information and explanations given to us, and as shown by the books of the Movement.
COLOMBO, 20th. Sept. 1961
Sgd. M. N. Sambamurthy
Chartered Accountant.

Page 78
134
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement S. Selvaratnam Esqr.
November 11, 1962 TAMIL UNIVERSITY MOVEMENT BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31st MARCH 1962.
SERIE
General Fund
Land as per last Balance as
balance
Rs. Cti. per last
Rs. Cip• Balance Rs. Cts
sheet 73,451.00 Sheet 392,9959.93
Add Transferred Add excess of
from suspense receipt over
A/C 2,325.50 expenditure
Addition during 80,527.12 473,487.05 the year 13e ea an 214 209 4
13,487.05 the year 138, 922.90 214,399.40 Sundry Creditors
Motor Cycle; at M. N. Sambamurthi & Co.
Cost
2,362.50 500.00 Office equipment as per
last balance sheet
3.026.65 Loan to Navalar Hall 20,000.00 Cash at Bank
233,457.82 Cash with resident Agent 599.13 Cash in hand
14.55
740.68
- 473,497.05
473,987.05
Audit Report
The above Balance sheet of the Tamil University Movement as at 31st March 1962 has been prepared by reference to the Cash Book Receipts and Vouchers.
We certify that in our opinion the above Balance sheet is properly drawn up so as to exhibit a truc and correct view of the MOVEMENT'S affoirs as at 31st March 1962

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
135
according to the best of our information and explanations given to us and as shown by the Books of the Movement.
Colombo.
Sgd. C. Kandasamy
Sgd. 28th December, 1962. Hony. Treasurer Chartered Accountants
The foregoing is a true copy of the Audited Balance sheet of the Movement for the period ending 31st March 1962.
Sgd. S. Scivaratuam.
Hony General Secretary
A New University Commission
At a meeting of the Council of the Tamil University Movement held on 29th July 1962, the press notification of a New University Commission and the terms of references published in Ceylon Daily News, 17th July 1962 was discussed. A sub committee of the Movement (see annual report 19621963) was constituted to draft a memorandum for submission to this Commission.
A general appeal to the Tamil speaking people of Ceylon was - made by President of the Movement to contribute funde for the building of the various faculties of the Tamil
University.
The contents of this memorandum was submitted to the . University Commission on the 20th of September 1962.
MEMORANDUM FOR SUBMISSION TO THE UNIVERSITIES COMMISSION
The Tamil University Movement was started in Juse 1956. With the following objects:-
History and objects
(a) the establishment of a University for the Taomli
speaking people of Ceylon,

Page 79
136
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
(b) the advancement of practical, and technological
education of the Tamil speaking people, in all
its aspects. It consists of over 4,000 members and is truly representative of the Tamil speaking people of Ceylon. The Move
ment has been recognised by Government as a charitable institution within the meaning of the Income Tax Ordinance.
By unanimous decision of the general body of members and endorsed by the elected representatives of the Tamil speakng peoples in Parliament, Municipal Councils, Urban Councils, Town Councils, Village Councils, it has been decided to establish the University in or near Trincomalee as this site is the most central in the Tamil speaking areas,
Site of the proposed University and the region most suited for purposes such as agriculture, animal husbandry, marine engineering etc. Already about 80 acres of land have been acquired for the general purposes of the University.
Pending the establishment of the University the Movement has set up in 1957, in rented premises in Colombo. South, Navalar Hall, which is an institution for higher studies. Navalar Hall has presented candidates for a nnmber of external examinations of the Uniyersity of London and of the University of Ceylon, and the results have been reasonably satisfactory.
Request for Government recognition and aid
A delegation from the Council first met the late Prime Minister in Jaunary 1957. At the conclusion of the discussions Mr. Bandaranaike offered the Movement a Cultural University which the delegation could not see its way to accept às such a University could not be of much use in the solution of the numerous economic problems confvonting the Tamil speaking people of Ceylon.

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
137
A Memorandum was also submitted to the Needham Commission and oral evidence was given by a delegation from the Council of the Tamil University Movement. The Commission has recommended the establishment of a University at Jaffna.
Subsequently, the present Prime Minister, the Honourable Mrs. Srimavo Bandaranaike, received yet another deputation from the Council of the movement, which
(a) explained in detail why the movement desired a
separate University for the Tamil speaking people of Ceylon.
(b) suggested the alternative ways in which Government
could help in Establishing the University.
At the conclusion of the interview the Prime minister requested the delegation to submit a brief memorandum embodying the case presented, "A copy of this memorandum is attached for favour of perusal of the Commissioners.
In reply to our Memorandum and a subsequent letter the Prime Minister has replied:
"That as already intimated to you the Government has accepted the proposal for the establishment of a Hindu Cultural University in Jaffna. Therefore it is regretted the Government is unable to agree to the establishment of a Tamil University or Tamil University College ar Trincomalee as proposed by you. ''
The Tamil University Movement does not think that the Cultural University will successfully solve the economic problems confronting the Tamil speaking people of Ceylon.
The Tamil University Movement desires to see established at Trincomalee a University or parts thereof as may be possible at the present moment,
(a) With Tamil as the medium of instruction,
(b) functioning against a Tamil cultural background,

Page 80
138
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
(c) laying special emphasis on agricultnre, animal
husbandry, technology, deep sea fishing and fish
products, marine engineering. (d) that will encourage the Tamil speaking youth to
spread his energies on productive work. The Council of the Tamil University Movement feels that Goverment might find it extremely difficult just now to assist financially the entire project. The Council will be satisfied if Government would give the University we seek to establish, the same financial assistance as is being given to the Vidyodaya and the Vidyalankara Universities.
Tamil .culture will not find a place in the University of Ceylon and it would not be possible in such an environment for Tamil undergraduates to obtain an education with a Tamil cultural background. A We wish to draw the attention of the Commissioners to the Reports of the Commission on Higher Education in the National Languages and of the National Education Commission in which -specific recommendations have been made for the allocation of places in the University of Ceylon on a religious and racial basis. If these recommendations are implemented it will much reduce the opportunities the Tamil speaking people have for University Education. We feel that this outlook will eventually lead to discrimination resulting on the one hand in the denial of University Education to those capable of receiving it and on the other hand the grant of such education to those who have no competence.
A Tamil University is necessary for the preservation, dissemination and extension through the Tamil medium in Ceylon of knowledge in all its aspects, and it is only by this method that this knowledge can reach all the Tamil spenking peoples of Ceylon.
We would finally submit that in multilingual Countries such as Canada, Belgium, etc. Universities have been established for linguistic minorities,
Sgd: A, W. Mailvaganam
President Tamil University Movement.

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
139
Annexure aide Memoire
1. A delegation from the Tamil University Movement led by its President, Professor A. W. Mailvaganam, and consisting of Professors P. K. Chanmugam, K. Kanapathi. pillai, A. Sinnathamby and Messrs V. Murugesu and M. Tiruchelvam, was received by the Hon. Prime Minister as Temple Trees on Saturday, February 25, 1961. Ir. H. Jinadasa, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, and Mr. S. F. de Silva, Director of Education were also present.
2. History of the Tamil University Movement. Prof. Mailvaganam stated that
(a) the Movement was established in June, 1956 with the twin objects of estadlishing a University for the Tamil speaking people of Ceylon in Trincomalee aud to furthe, higher Education of these people in all its aspects.
(b) its membership is about 3000 and is drawn from all sectors of the Tamil speaking people of Ceylon.
(c) the Movement is strictly non-political, but it has the support of all political parties among the Tamil speaking People of Ceylon.
(d) it is the only organised body to speak on behalf of the Tamil speaking people of Ceylon in the matter of
University education.
(e) it has been declared by the Ilon. Finance Minister to be a Charitable Organisation.
3. The Type of University desired.
(a) non-residential,
(b) Faculties of Arts, Science and Engineering at Trincomalee, Agriculture and Animal Husbandry in Vavuniya, Medicine in Jaffna.

Page 81
140
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
4. Functions of the University.
(a) to conserve, diffuse, develop Tamil culture,
(b), to provide University Education against a Tamil cultural background,
, (c) to direct the talents and energies of the Tamil speaking youth along production channels.
5. Site of the University.
Trincomalee is favoured for the following reasons:
(a) it is a sanctified town like Kandy, Kelaniya Anur rahapura which are going to be seats of higher learning.
(b) best suited for marine engineering.
(c) Eastern Province is educationaly backward and the existence of the University will greatly help to improve this Province,
(d) it is central for the Tamil speaking areas.
6. Earlier interview on 14-1-1957 with the late Mr.S.W.R.
D. Bandaranaike when he was the Prime Minister.
(a) The above facis were mentioned,
(b) 1400 students mostly Tamils, studying in South Iodia, annual exchange drain from Ceylon about three
million rupees.
(c). The majority of these students went to India to get University Education against a Tamil cultural background,
(d) for every student who goes to India there must be several who could not, owing to lack of finances.
(e) the increasing influence of the culture of the majority community in the University of Ceylon which still naturally militate against the frec growth and development of Tamil culture within the University of Ceylon.

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
141
7. . The late Mr. Bandaranaiko's offer to us!
A cultural University on the lines of the Vidyalankara and Vidyodaya Pirivenas (which had not been raised to University status at that time.) We could not see our way to accepting this offer as it would confine the Tamil University's activities to certain subjects of the Faculty of Arts only.
Since then these two Pirivenas have been converted into Universities with power to establish full Arts and Science Faculties. Had we known this at the time of the interview we would gladly have accepted the Prime Minister's offer.
8. - Pronouncements by the late Prime Minister:
(a) in introducing the Sinhala only Bill in the House of Representatives he stated that the Tamil should be given a University of their own.
(b) the above statement was repeated by him at the inauguration ceremony of the Vidyalankara University of
Ceylon. 9. Our request:
(a) tho grant of Charter by Act of Parliament empowering the establishment of a University at Trincomalee for the Tamil speaking People of Ceylon, with such faculties as may be feasible immediately, other faculties to follow in due course.
(b) provision of funds
(i) for capital expenses (buildings and equipment) (ii) for recurrent expenses.
Prof. Mailvaganam stated that in 1960 the Vidyalankara University was given 7 million rupees for buildings and 1.28 million rupees for maintaining an Arts Faculty and that the same University is asking for 1961, 9 million rupees for buildings and 2.15 million rupees for recurrent expenditure.

Page 82
142
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement The Council of the Tamil University Movement requests only
(i) 4 million rupees, to put up buildings for Arts
and Science Faculties at Trincomalee, land being already available,
(ii) 2 million rupces annually for recurrcat expenses
of these two Faculties.
Should Government find it difficult to vote the capital expenditure Council requests the loan of the Naval buildings at Fort Frederick and Fort Ostenberg. If even this is not possible; Council is prepared to put up the buildings but requests the Charter and the Vote for recurrent expenses.
10. Discussion.
In the discussion that followod Mr. Jinadasa stated that
yr (i) Mr. S. Natesan wished to establish a Hindu
cultural University in Jaffna in terms of a Trust by the lato Sir P. Ramanathan,
(ii) the Needham University Commission had recom
mended a University in Jaffna.
Prof. Mailvaganam stated in reply to (i) that he had studied the Parameshwara College Trust and that the Trust provided only for the teaching of Hinduism to Saiva Students attending this School and that there was no mention of a
Hindu University in the Trust. Ho added that Council had no objection to the establishment of this Hindu cultural Collego/University provided that the Tamil University at
Trincomalee was granted and that, if Mr. Natesan so wished, e his Cultural College could be affiliated to the Trincomalee
University,
ON The Prime Minister stated that the Government has not made any promise to Mr, Natesan regarding the conversion of Parameshwara and Ramanathan College into a Hindu Cultural

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
143
College or University. She also promised to ascertain from her Permanent Secretary about the availability of the Trincomalee Naval Buildings.
In reply to (ii) he stated that when a democratic Government seeks to do anything for the people it invariably consults the wishes of the people through their elected representatives. In this case the Movement has secured the active support of the representatives of the Tamil Speak... people of Ceylon- and documents signed by their Parliamentary representatives and also by Heads of Local bodies in in the Tamil Speaking areas, to this effect, were handed to the Prime Minister.
In reply to a question by the Prime Minister Prof. Mailvaganam stated that at the proposed Tamil University in Trincomalee
(i) the medium of instruction would be Tamil,
(ii) Sinhalese taught through Tamil medium would
be a subject in the curriculum. After hearing the delegation the Prime Minister promised to consult the Minister of Education and to communicatc
with the Council at an early date.

Page 83
144
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement OFFICE-BEARERS OF THE MOVEMENT.
YEAR
1957 President:
Sri Waitilingam Duraiswamy, Kt., B. A., Former Speaker.
State. Council.
Vice-Presidents:
Mr. C. C. A. Britto Mutunayagam, B. C. L., M. A. (Oxon.),
Bar-at-Law. Retired Principal, Law College. Prof. P. K. Chanmugam, M. Sc. (Lond.), M. R. C. S. (Eng: ),
F. R. C. S. (Eng.). L. R. C. P. (Lond.), L. M. S. (Ceylon.),
Professor of Anatomy, University of Ceylon. Mr. R. R. Crossette-Thambiah Q. C., Bar at-Law, Former
Solicitor-General. Prof. K. Kanapathipillai, B. A., PH. D. (Lond.), Vidwan
(Apna imalai), Professor of Tamil, University of Ceylon. Prof. C. J. Eliezer, M. A., PH. D. (Cantab.), D. Sc. (Lond.),
Professor of Mathematics, University of Ceylon. Mr. M. M. I. Kariapper, District Judge, Kurunegala. The Rt. Rev. Sa bapathy Kulendran, B. A. (Lond.). B. D.
Bishop in Jaffna of the Church of South India. Prof. A. W. Mailvaganam, O. B. E.,. M. A., PH. D. (Lond.), B. Sc.
(Lond.), F. N. A. Sc., Professor of Physics. University of
Ceylon. Prof. A. Sinnatamby, L. M. S. (Ceylon,) F. R. C. S. (Edin), F.R,-
C. S. (Eng.), M. R. C. O. G. (Gt. Br.) Professor of Obstetrics
and Gynaecology, University of Ceylon. Mr. P. Sri Skandarajah, District Judge, Jaffna, Dr. S. Subramaniam, L. M. S. (Cal.), L. R. C. P. and S. (Edin.).
Former Provincial Surgeon, Jaffna. Rev. Fr. X, S, Thaninayagam, M. A., M. LITT., S. T. D. Mr. M. Tiruchelvam, B. A., LL.B. (Lond.), Deputy Solicitor
General. Ar. J. Tyagarajah M. A., L. L. B. (Cantab.), Bar-at-La W.
Mr. S. P. Vaithilingam, Proprietory Planter.

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
145
General Committee:
Dr. C. Amirthalingam, B. Sc., P. H. D. (Lond.), Forner Director
of Fisheries. Mr. C. Aiyathurai, Proctor, Vavuniya. Mr. S. Arumugam, B. Sc., (Lond.), B. Sc., (Angineering),
A. M. I. C. E., M. I. w. E., Deputy Director of Irrigation. Dr. V. Appapillai. B. Sc. PH. D. (Lond.), Reader in Physics,
University of Ceylon, Mr. C. S. Barr-Kumarakulasinghe, Advocate Colombo. Dr. (Mrs.) G. R. B. Barr-Kumarakulasinghe M. R. C.P. (Edin).
D. C. H. (Eng.), L. M. S. (Cey), Paediatrician. Mr. R. Canagarayar, B.Sc. Tech. (Manch.), A. M. C.T., A.M.I.-
C. E,, A. M. I. Mech. E., A. M. I. E. ., A. M. I. Mun.. ., Associate I. E. E., Chief Engineer and Manager Municipal
Tramways. Mr. K. T. Chittampalam, Proctor. Mr. S. Cumaraswamy, A. C. A., B. A. (I.ond.) Dr. A. A. Hoover, B. Sc. (Lond.) PH. D. (Lond.) Mrs. Sarojini Kadirgamar B. A. (Ceylon) Capt. A. C. Kana kasingham, Proctor, Trincomalee. Mr N. Krishnadasan, District Judge, Galle Prof. K. Kularatnam, PH. D. (Lond.), M. A. (Lend.).A G.A.
(Lond.), B. Sc., F. R. G. S., F. S. S., M. Inst. Min. E. Dr. P. Mahadevan, 8. Sc., P. H. D. (Glas.). Livestock lesenich
officer, Dept. of Agriculture. Mr. V. Manickavasagar, District Judge, Colombo. Mr. N. Manicka Iddaikadar, M. A. Cantab. B Sc. (Lond.)
E. S. S. (Lond.), B. C. D., C. C. S. Mr. K. Mathiaparanam, Merchant, Colombo. Dr. S. Vithiananthan, M. A. (Cey.), P. H. D. (Lond.), Leeturer
in Tamil, University of Ceylon. Mr. A. Merza, Former M. P. Kalmunai. Mr. W. Olegasagram. Advocate. Batticaloa.

Page 84
146
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
Prof. R. H. Paul, M.A. (Cantab).. D. Sc. Lond.).F.R.S. A., M I.
E E. Prof. of Electrical Engineering, University of Ceylon. Mr. A. Perumynar D. R. O., Jaffna. Mr. S. Rajanayagam, O. B. E., B.Sc. Eng. (Lond.) A. C. G. 1..
A. M. I. E. E. Chief Telecommunication Engineer. Mr. E. A. Rajasingham, E. D. B. Sc. (Lond.), F. R. I. C. S. Lt.
Col. (C. E. O.), Member, Ceylon Transport Board. Mr. M. Rajendra, B. A. (Lond,). C. c. S. Mr. C. Ranganathan, Advocate, Colombo. Mr. C. Rasiah, B. Sc., A. M. I. C. Mech. Sc, Tripos (Cantab). Dr. W. D. Ratnavale, M. D., (Pathology), L. R. C. P. D. H. P.
L, M. S. (Ceylon), M. B. B. S. (Lond.) L. R. C. P. (Lond.)
Pathologist. Mr. J. M. Sabaratnam, B. A. (Lond.), D. R. O. Kalmunai. Mr. S. Sittampalam B. Sc. (Lond.) Prof. V. Sivalingam, M. R. C.P. (Edin.) D. T. M. & H, (Eng.)
L. M. s. (Cey ), Professor of Parasitology. University of
A Ceylon. Mr K. V. M. Subramaniam J. P., U. M., Proctor, Batticaloa. Dr. A. Sundralingam, B.Sc.. P.H. D. (Lond.) F. R. I. C., A.M. Am.I.
Mr. G. P. Thambyah, B. A. (Lond.), C. C. S. Mr. K. Tharmaratnam, B. A. (Ceylon). M. A. Lond.) Statisti
cian, Dept. of Commerce. Dr. S. Thirunavukarasu, L. M. S- (Cey.), Dept. of Health
Services. Sri Kanthiah Vaithianathan, Kt., C. B. E., B. Sc. (Lond)
General Secretary:- Mr. T. Rajathurai, B. Sc. (Lond.), Advocate, C. C. S.
Asst. Secretary: Mr. R. Rajaratnam, Asst. Director of Food Production.
(Asst. Secretaries Ctd.) Mr. M. Ramasamy, B. Sc. (Ceylon). M. Sc. (Lond.), D.I.C.
F. R. L. C.

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
147
Treasurer:
Mr. T. S. Muttulingaswamy, B. Sc. (Lond.) Manager, City
Branch, Bank of Ceylon.
Asst. Treasurers: Mr. E. S. Devasagayam, B. Sc. (Madras.). M. Sc. (Calif.) Mr. C. Kandsamy. B. Sc. (Eng.), A. M. I. C. E., Engineer,
Colombo Municipal Council.
Auditor: Mr. K. Satchithananda.
Year 1959
President Sir Waitilingam Duraiswamy
ܬ ܒܶ ܕܵܐ ܚܲܕ݂ ܗ݁ ܢܶܬ݁ .ܶ
Vice Presidents Prof. P. K. Chanmugam 8, Prof. A, W, Mailwaganam Mr. R. R. Crossette
: 9.
Prof. A. Sianathamby A Thambiah 10. Hon. N. Sinathamby : 3. Rev. Fr. A. E. Crowther 11. Mr, P. Sri Skandarajah
Prof. K. Kanapathipillai
12.
Rev. Fr. X.S. Thaninayagam Mr. M. M. I. Karriapper
13. Mr. S. Thondaman Mr. N. Krishnadasan
14. Mr. M. Thiruchelvam 7. Rt. Rev. Sabapathy
15. Mr S. P. Vaithialingam Kulendaran
Ceneral Council
Mr. Adiapatham C.
30. Wr. Poopalapillai V. Appapillai V.
31.
Ponnudurai K. S. 3. Dr. Arumugam K.
32. ,,
Ponniah V. S. 4. Mr. Arumuganathan S.
33. Dr. Mrs. Rajasingham M. Asservathan S.
34. Mr. Rajanayagam S. 6.
Dr. Mrs. Barr-Kumarakul
35.
Rajaratnam R. singhe, C. R. B.
36.
Rasiah C. 7. Mr. Balasingham C.
| 37. Dr. Ratnavel W. D. Canagasabi A. S. T.
38.
Mr. Rajadurai S. N. Canagasabai V.
39.
Pundit Rutnam K. P. Chellararah E.
40. Mr. Sangarapillaip.

Page 85
148
The Diary of the Ta ranil University Movement
WAP 42.
42.
13.
15.
,,
49.
11, Mr. Cumarswamy P. 41, Mr. Selliab K. A. 12.,, David S. A. .
Shanmuganathan A. Gunaseiraram S. J.
43.
Signathamby A. 14. ,, Jamaludoen S. M. A. 44.
Sittempalam K. Kanagaratnam K.
45.
Sivanandasundaram K. 16.
Prof. Kularatnam K.
46.
Son asundaram Peter 17. Mr. Manika-Ikkaikaddar N. 47.
Sinnathamby M. 18.
Mathiapalasingham M. 48.
Subramaniam K.V.M. 19.
Mahendran V.
Suppiah K.
20.
Manikan M.
50.
Subramaniam S. 21.
Mathiaparanam K.
51. Dr.
Sandrasegara A. P. Murugupillai R.
52. I
Saravanamuttu S. K. 23.
Mutuvelu. V. S.
53.
Sambasivam A. 24.
Murugesu V.
54.
Tiruchittampalam T. 25.
Muttucumaru C.
55.
Tharmaratnam K. 26.
Navaratnam C. T. 56.
Vairávapillai M. 27.
Nagalingam K.
Vaithialingam N. A. Nithiananthan K. C. 58.
Vairhialingam S. Pararajasingham E. S. 59. Dr.
Vithiananthan S.
22.
57.
28.
29.
General Secretary
Mr. T. Rajadurai
Asst. Secretaries Mr. S. Selvaratnam Mr. M. Ramaswamy
General Treasurers "Mr. C. Kandasamy
Asst. Treasur rs Mr. K. Thillaiampalam Mr. S. Yogalingam.
Special Meeting of the Council Held on 29-8-63
At a Special meeting of the council, held on 29-8-63. it was informed that a message of condolence had been sent to Mrs. Rajavarothayam, on the death of ther hushand Mr.

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
149
R. Rajavartheyam M. P. for Trincomalee. Estimates prepared by the Works Committee for the construction of the Practical Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Centre was also tabledExpenditure for office equipment, furniture, apparatus, agri. cultural ma-chinery, agricultural implements, veterinary instruments livestock, additional buildings etc. amount to Rs. 95,000.00. It was informed that the funds of the movemene stood at Rs. 150,000.00 It was unanimously/decided that the building programme for establishing agricultural Training Centre should proceed and the building to be completed by 3-12-63 Mr. Arumuganathan's benevolent contribution of Rs. 2.000.00 monthly up to a total of Rs. 20,000.00 and Mr. Veeravagu's similar contribution were gladly accepted. It was unanimously decided to name the two buildings after these two benefactors. The council also was informed of the steps taken for eithe purchasing or obtaining a long lease of irrigable paddy fields in Tambalagam, for the activities of the movement. Mr. R. Rajaratnam was requested to explore the possibility of obtaining paddy fields in Trincomalee. It was informed that Mr. Navaratnarajah was agaceable to lease 50 acres of paddy land on conditions stipulated by the movement. provided that the movement wold make contributions at stated intervalss to the temple on the land. The council was unanimous that the centre should not be started with out paddy fields. Authority was granted to the President for purchasing at least 20 acres of paddy field at a priec of about Rs. 2.000.00 per acre, for field that could be cultivable for two seasons in a year and at Rs. 1.000.00 per acre for, fleid cultivable for one season only.
The office bearers for the year 1963-4 were elected at the AGM held on 8 December 1963.
| At a meeting of the Council held on 26-1-64, Prof. A. Sinnatamby was elected as chairman- and a member of the board of trustecs. Three minutes silence was observed as "a mark of respect for Dr. S. Subramaniam and Mr. S. J.
Gunasokaram an enthusiast yolunteer of the movement.

Page 86
130
The Diary of she Tacnil University Mova IKEAE
Inger Harbour Road land,
The Council was informed of the handing of the deeds of the Inner Harbour Road land to the land Registry Trinco
malee for registration. A complete list of the squatters on the land was to be obtained from the Director of Agriculture and Mr. Krishnadasan agreed to obtain the information
Uppuveli lands.
The draft deed for the land purchased from the late Mr. Rajavarothayam had been approved by Mr. Sampanthan Action was being taken to redraft the deeds in respect of the other la-nds purchased by the movement in Uppuvelis Action was to be taken to to start English classes at Navalar. Hall and the action taken to trace the lost water pump was. futile. Concrete proposals were to be placd by a sub-com
mittee for activities' on the Inner Harbour Road land such as a carpentry workshop, or a workshop for repairing motorboats, radio servising and for imparting technical education.
The council was informed that on a suggestion by Mr Jeganathan that, subject to approval, a course of practica training in agriculture to young men who had studied up to the J. S. C. had been started. Trainees were to receivel, instruction and practical training in the following:
Soil conservation measures
Fencing. iii.
Lay out of nurseries and plots for cultivation Preparatory tillage
Plant propagation VI
Conservation of water
Rotation of crops. Viii Construction of farm buildings.
vii
It was informed that from six trainces on 16th Janury, the number had increased to 12.

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
151
Navalar Hall.
A report on this institution was read by the chairman A committee consisting of: Prof. A. W. Mailva ganam as chairman, and Ms. N. Krishnadasap, R. Rajaratnam, K. A. Selliah, S. Aru Muganathan, C. Rasiah, C. Kandasamy. C. Satkunanathan, S. Selvaratnam and P. Kathiravetpillai as convener was elected to investigate and report on the working of the Hall. The committe was to consider the question of running the Hall economically with emphasis on technical education and provision of professional courses.
Prof. A. Sinnatamby was unanimously ected chairman of the council and the following as members the Board of Trustees. Prof. A. W. Mailvaganam, Prof. A. Sinnatamby. Prof. P. K. Chanmugam, N. Krishnadasan, N. Vairavapillai, C. Rasiah and T. Rajadurai.
i. Squatters-Inner Harbour Road. The land committee
recomm

Page 87

The Diar
THE TAMIL UNIVERSIT FINANCIAL STATEMENT AS A
Balance brought forward: Subscriptions from Members Donations to Building Fund Rent received Sale of Coupons
170,926,64 2,684.00
60.00 151.00 175.00
Post Banl Salai Trav
Servi
3270.00
TO
Rent Insul
Wate Fenc
Build "Main Padd Wate Wage
Leasc
Posta Trave Spar Broad Build Jungl Draw Adva Paym Heav
Balar
174.196.64
Substwie
S A L A R I ES
Clork fo October, 1974 Stenographer for October, 1964 Administrative Assistant October 19
D. T. C. October, 1964.

Page 88
The I
THE TAMIL UNIVER FINANCIAL STATEMENT AS
170,926.64
Balance brought forward: Subscriptions from Members 2,684.00 Donations to Building Fund
60.00 Rent received
151.00 Sale of Coupons
175.00
3270.00
AL A V H M -- TLE = B = A A S > A Q. - -
| 174.196.64
S A L A R I
Clork fo October, 1974 Stenographer for October, 1964 "Administrative Assistant Octobe
D. T. C. October, 1964.

Diary of the Tamil University Movement
152
SITY MOVEMENT
AT 31st OCTOBER, 1964.
-hutana Roo
Postage & Stationery
60.60 Bank Charges
51.28 alaries
1,489.00 Pravelling & Subsistence
174.81ervicing Typewriter
2.50 PO EXPENSES AT UPPUVELIR sent
250.00 asurance
| 782.59. Water Pump
1,215.00 Fencing Lot 21
| 634.25 Building work
4,609.96 Maintenance
5.00 addy Cultivation Kalapokam
18.00 l'ater Tank Lot 21
2,113.00 Jages
145.00 ease of Paddy land
1300.00 ostage & Stationery
6.05 ravelling & Subsistence
54.70 pares
42.75 eroadening of new wells
175.00' Fuilding work II
16,141.75 ungle clearing Lot 7
312.00 prawing Board
295.00. -dvance of Generator
2,500.00 Fayment to Squatter Joseph
1,400.00 Heavy oil duty
1204.00
Balancc
35,002.93 139,194.31
174.196.64
Ꭲ0Ꭲ ᎪᏞ
EES
220.09. 218.60 340.00 710.40
r 1964
1489.09

Page 89


Page 90

TAMIL UNIVERSITY Balance Sheet At 31s
FIL
GENERAL FUND Balance as per last B/s.
513.085.49 Add: Excess Receipts over Expenditure
925.57 SUNDRY CREDITORS
Lar
Lea
514.011,06
500.00
Tra
Roa Offie
INP
Cey
Curr Loa
Cash Acc
Acc.
Ace
Cast
Cast
Rs.
514,511.07 AUDIT REPORT TO THE COMMITTEE The above Balance Sheet as at 31st maroh 1964 and the connected Receipts and Expenditure account for the year ende 31st march 1964 have been prepared by us on the basis, of our Oxemination of the books and vouchers maintained by the Treasurer and the information furnisbied by the Treasurer and is in accordance therewith.
A Subject to the Liability for income tax which has uot been ascertained, in our opinion the above Balance Sheet is properly drawn up to disclose the correct state of affairs of the movement as at 31st march 1964 to the best of our knowledge, information and as shown by the books and records maintained.
Colombo.
M. N. Sambamurthi & Co. 30th October 1964
Chartere Accountants

Page 91
TAMIL UNIVERSIT:
Balance Sheet At 31
GENERAL FUND
Balance as per last B/s
513,085.49 Add: Excess Receipts over Expenditure
925.57 SUNDRY CREDITORS
|
514.011,06
500.00
4
( SS
Rs.
514,511.07
AUDIT REPORT TO THE COMMITTEE The above Balance Sheet as at 31st maroh 1964 and the connected Receipts and Expenditure account for the year ende 31st march 1964 have been prepared by us on the basis, of our exemination of the books and vouchers maintained by the Treasurer and the information furnisbed by the Treasurer and is in accordance therewith.
* Subject to the Liability for income tax which has uot becn ascertained, in our opinion the above Balance Sheet is properly drawn up to disclose the correct state of affairs of the movement as at 31st march 1964 to the best of our knowledge, information and as shown by the books and records maintained.
Colombo.
M. N. Sambamurthi & Co. 30th October 1964
Chartere Accountonis

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
153
Y MOVEMENT ist March 1964
214,399.40
2,524.00
FIXED ASSETS and - As per last Balance Sheet casehold Paddy land - At cest
at Uppuveli As per last B/s
Additions during the year ractor at cost
oad Tracer al cost Rice Equipment
As per last B/C Additions during the year Furniture and Fitrings at cost
25, 130,60 48,803.76
73.934.39 19,734.43
185.00
6,128.40 1,155.00
7,283.40
2,350.00 320,410.59
40.000.00
2.653 00
VESTMENTS AT cost eylon Government 44% loan 1984-85 irrent Assets pan-K. S. Sclladurai ash at Bank ccount No. 31494 44,668 67 ccount No. 32298
1,143 05 count No. 33550
104,429 55 ash at Upuveli
599 07 ash in Hand
607 13
150.241 27
1,206 20 154,100 47
RS.
514,511 06
A. W. Mailvagauan
President

Page 92
154
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
TAMIL UNIVERSITY M Receipts and Expenditure account for the ye
By Subsc
Dona Sale e Intere Sale Rent
To Salaries
Printing Postage and Stationery Bank charges Travelling Income tax
Transport charges Rent and Rates Hire charges for Safe Grant to Navalar Hall Audit fee Paddy cultivation expenses workmen compensation insurance
Wages Maintenance, Fencing etc Repairs to Resident Agent's quarters Watching expenses Coconut plucking and transport Aereage fees Clearing Charges Tools
Misceilaneous expenses
Advertisə ment .. Excess Rhceibts over Expenditure
15,700 98 1,348 41
749 08 1,631 57 11666 00
368 25 4.056 08
90 00 16000 00
500 00 303 75
• 286 40 694 00 166 85 207 00 34 00 91 4.4 332 75 2,211 00
684 50 192 93
85 80
925 57. Rs. 58,326 36
Colombo. 30th October 1964
M. N.

OVEMENT =ar ended 31st March 1964
criptions tions of produce est received of Coupons rceeived
42,303 00 14,267 00
177 18 799 18 180 00 600 00.
EPAL, Sir
Rs. 58,326 36
Sambamurthi & Co.
artered Accountants

Page 93
VERSITY MOVEMENT
unt for the year ended 31st March 1964
By Subscriptions
Donations
Sale of produce ... Interest received
Sale of Coupons Rent reeeived
4:2,303 00 14,267 00
177 18 799 18 180 00 600 00
O 98 3 47 9 08 1 57 5 00 3 25 5 08 O 00 ) 00 O 00 3 75 3 40 2 00
85
7 00 1 00 | 44 2 75 100 = 50 e 93 380 5 57 : 36
Rs.
68,326 36
M. N. Sambamurthi & Co.
Chartered Accountants

TAMIL UNIVERS BALANCE SHEET AS
GENERAL FUND As per last Balance Sheet
514,011 06 Less: Excess of Excess of Expenditure
over Receipt 4, 751 28 509,25 78 SUNDRY CREDITORS
500 00
Rs. 509,750 78 AUDIT REPORT TO THE COMMITTEE The above Balance Sheet as at 31st March 1965 and the connected Receipts and Expenditure account for the year ended 31st March 1965 have been prepared by us on the basis of our examination of the books and vouchers maintained by the Treasurer and the information furnished by the Treasurer and is in accordance therewith.
Subject to the Liability for income tax which has not been ascertained, in our opinion the above Balance Shect is properly drawn up to disclose the correct state of affairs of the Movement as at 31 st March 1965 to the best of our knowledge. information and as shown by the books and records maintained. » Colombo.
M. N. Sambamurthi & Co. 30th August 1965
Chartered Accountants

Page 94
TAMIL UNIVERSIT BALANCE SHEET AS A
GENERAL FUND
As per last Balance Sheet
514,011 06 Less: Excess of Excess of Expenditure
over Receipt 4, 751 28 SUNDRY CREDITORS
509,25 78
500 00
Rs. 509,750 78
AUDIT REPORT TO THE COMMITTEE The above Balance Shect as at 31st March 1965 and the connected Receipts and Expenditure account for the year ended 31st March 1965 have been prepared by us on the basis of our examination of the books and vouchers maintained by the Treasurer and the information furnished by the Treasurer and is in accordance therewith.
Subject to thc Liability for income tax which has not been ascertained, in our opinion the above Balance Sheet is properly drawn up to disclose the correct state of affairs of the Movement as at 31 st March 1965 to the best of our knowledge, information and as shown by the books and records maintained. ) Colombo.
M. N. Sambanturthi & Co. 30th August 1965
Chartered Accountants

The Diary of the Tamil University. Movement
155
"Y MOVEMENT r 31st MARCH 1965
FIXED ASSETS
At cost as per Additions Deprecilast B/sheet
Cost
tlon
Balance
sand
214, 399 40
214,399 32 seasehold Paddy Land 2,524 00
2,524 00 Buildings-School of Agriculture at Uppuveli 73,934 3672,626 96 146,561 32 'ractor
19,734 43
257 75 2,960 16 17,03 2 02 Road Tracer
485 00
18 50 166 50 Office Equipment 7,283 40
295 00
364 17 7,214 00 saboratory Eqipment
7,674 56
7.674 23 Electrical Equipment
9,277 05
9,277 05 Furniture and Fittings 2,350 000
8,245 00 117 50 10,477 30 Vells und Pumps
5,771 00
5,771 00 Rs. 320,410 59 104,147 32 5,984 33 418,573 58
nvestments at Cost Ceylon Government 44%Loan 1984.88
40.000,00 Current Assets Loan K. S. Selladurai
155604, Cash at Bank: Account No. 31494 21304.83
3 2 298 1143.05
33556 27,109.03 49,556.91 Cash in hand
73.25 51186.20 Rs. 509,759.78
A. W. Mailvagenam
President

Page 95
156
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
TAMIL UNIVERSITY Receipts and Expenditure Account for the yea
By Sub ... Don
Salce Inte
Sale ... Ren
Exce
To Salaries
19, 249.04 Printiiug, Postage and Stationery
814.48 ... Bank charges
609 64 Travelling and Subsistance
2,236 93 ... Wealth tax
1,190 00 Rents and Rates
495 65 Hire charges for Safe
90 00 Audit fees
500 00Paddy Cultivation expensee
4,143 80 Insurance
1 178 59 ... Wages
2,003 00 Matntenance fencing etc
2,814 65 Clearing chargcs
696 70 ... Watching expenses
93 00 - Coconut plucking and transport
38 72 Acreage fees
89 00 Miscellaneous expenses
103 00 Entertainment
21 34 Lease rent
1.300 00 Tools
39 35 Telephone
110 00 Heavy Oil tax
3,760 00 Cyclone reconstruction
4,844 18 Timber
1,04 10 54 Books and Periodicals
302 50 Compensation for vacating land
1,400 00 Leasehold Paddy Land-Capital
Expenditure w/off
2,524 00 Dcpreciation: Tractor
2960 16 Road Tracer
18 50 Office Eqipment
364 17 "Faraiture and
Fittings 117 50 3,460 33
Rs. 58,426 42
Colombo. 30th August 1965
M. N.
Char

MOVEMENT r ernded 31st Mareh 1965
escriptions nations e of produce erest received e Coupons t received ess of Expenditure over Receipts
35.963 '00 10,470 00 3,247 64 1,869 50 1,130 00
995 00 4,751 28
Rs. 58, 426 42
- Sambamurthi
-tered Accoረስ/ሰnt

Page 96
ERSITY MOVEMENT
for the year ernded 31st Maret 1965
04
18
93
By Subscriptions ... Donations ... Sele of produce
Interest received ... Sale Coupons
Rent received ... Excess of Expendituro over Receipts
35.963 '00 10,470 00 3,247 64 1.869 50 1,130 00
995 00 4,751 28
90
55
90
00:
30
59 90 65 70 00
72
20 20
34.
Do
35
no 00
54 50
00
00
42
Rs. 58,426 42
M. N. Sambamurthi
Chartered Accountant

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
157
recommended that tenancy agreements be entered into with cach of the squatters with certain conditions. The law subcommittee recemmended that action be taken against most of the squatters on the Uppuveli land. The auditors had informed that under the present Inland Revenue Act (No. 4 of 1965) the funds of the movement were not liable for tax
Practical Training in Agriculture? It was informed that out of 15 students, 12 had completed their training and 3 were continuing their training in masonry. There were 37 applications for admissions.
At a meeting of the Council held on 29-3-64 the council welcomed the move by the government to establish a university campus in Jaffna with Science and Arts faculties. It was felt that there should be no set back in the activies of the movement as the movement was actively engaged in sponsoring:
a. A practical training in Agriculture and animal husbandry b. Imparting technical education to youth
Navalar Hall. In view of ibe opinion expressed by the University Commission Report-Sessional Paper XVI-1963, it was felt that on, no account should Navalar Hall be closed down and its continuance was necessary in the best interests of the movement and in view of the fact that the University of Ceylon would switch over to to the swabasha medium in the science faculty in 1968. The financial deficit in running of the Hall could not be taken as a loss as there
werc assets in the form of furniture, scientific equipement and imported chemicals.
The 7th report of the movement covercd the period 1st Dec. 1963 to 31st Dec, "65 The cyclone in Dec.
•64 had disrupted the activities of the movement in Trincomalee-the Agricultural. and Animal Husbandry Centre at Uppveli In the running of the Navalar Hall, the report stated that it was able to meet its recurrent expenditure without much assistance from the Movement. (vide report)

Page 97
158
The Diary of the Tarail University Movement
A new sicution arose with the government controlling higher education in the country, the banning of foreign examinations and the switch over to swa basba for the University of Ceylon entrance examinations, A large number of non-Tamil students were attracted to Navalar Hall as it prepa-red for examinations in the English medium-London University exa
mications and Universitycf Ceylon entrance exa-minations. No private organisation was permitted to set a school of Higher studies Dor use the term University'.
On the death of Sir Waitialingam Doraiswamy in May 1966, Prof A. W. Mailvaganam was elected president of the
movement. The Services rendered by Sir W. Doraiswaamy to Ceylonese in general and the movement in particular was referred to by the new president as an irreparable loss to the community with the passing awy of a senior statesman. Photographs of Sir W. Doraiswamy and late Sir K. Vaithianathan were to be unveiled.
The members of the movement were to form themselves inro co-operative societies and register with the Registrar of co-operalive Societies in order to cultivate the 500 acre land leased from the government at Nedunkeri
The incorporation of the Tamil University Movement (Gazetted on 16th June 1966) secured solely by the efioris of Mr. M. Sivasithamparam M. P. for Udupiddy was a happy event.
It was noted that the funds of the movement were depleting and the Council decided to take early action in this matser.
The president informed the meeting of Council held on 25 June 1966 of the efforts made by the leading members of of the community to make a united densand for a Tamil University-Ramanathan University for the Tamil speaking people of the Island. Mr C. Balasingam who initiated this proposal explained the details formulated, after a full discussion on this it was decided that any proposal formulated for the establishment of the University, should in the first instance be examined by the Law Committee and thereafter

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
159
referred to the Council and final decision on the matter be taken by the general body. The following resolution was passed unanimously.
*** The Council considers it very urgent to establish a University for the Tamil speaking people with provision for the teaching of all religions-Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam Christianity and other religions. The following persons are authorised to formulate proposals for the establishment of this university with the support of the Hindu Religious Advisory Comm-ittee and other bodies.
Prof. A. W. Mailvaganam
, A. Sinnata mby
P. K. Chanmugam Mr. C. Renganathan Q. C. ,, C. Balasingam
M. Vairavapillai
N. Krishnadasan , T. Rajadurai , C. Amirthanayagam
At a special meeting of the Council held on 9 July 1966, Prof. A. W. Maiivaga nam tabled the draft memorandum prepared by the sub-committee for the establishment of a Tamil University. Mr. C. Balasingam informed the Council the amendments suggested by Sir Arunachalam Mahadeva with whom he had discussed the draft memorandum. The proposal of the sub-committee for the establishments of a University for the Tamil speaking people was amended by Sir A. Mahadeva that the proposed university should cater to all people seeking higher education from the northern and eastern provinces. The movement was to indicate in the memorandum the extent and portions of the land heeded for establishing a campus in Trincomalee, that is to be handed over to the government, It was unanimously agreed subject to ratification by the general body that the movement is to hand over to the government its assets as an endowment for the establish
ment of the University for the Tamil speaking people with a campus in Trincomalee. Mr. G. G. Ponnarnbalam nad informed that he would in the first instance discuss the

Page 98
160
The Diary of the Tamil University Movemen
proposals with Sir Arunachalam Mahadeva thereafter, if necessary meet Sir. Mahadeva in the company of others. It was resolved that the council would discuss the memorandum again in July 1966,
A special meeting of the council held on 31 July discussed the representations to be made to the government for the establishment of a university for the Tamil speaking people.
A special meeting of the council held on 24 July was informed of the discussions the members had with Sir Mahadeva. It was felt that the government may not find the necessary fiinancial resources to set up a full fledged university; in which case the government should be induced to make a start with the resources available with the movement, Mr. Krishnadasan emppasised that the movement should come forward to hand over its assets only if a university or a university campus is to be established in Trincomalee. The lands in Trincomalee were purchased with the object of establishing a university there.
Mr. Kanagasunderam felt that a public statement of the the views and intentions of the movement for establishing a university for the Tamil speaking people was necessary, when there was considerable propaganda in support of the demand by a section of tne people for the establishment of Hindu Cultural University in the peninsula. Mr. Selvaratnam pointing to the non-political nature of the movement deplored the fact that the two major political parties among the Tamil speaking people made the establishment of a university for the Tamil speaking pepole a political issue The movement had to enlist the support of the various political parties in achieving its objective. It should strive and bring about a reconciliation betwwen the various political parties and present an agreed proposal to the government regarding the establish
ment of a University for the Tamil speaking people.
A committee was appointed to recommend a suitable design for the seat of the movement, a requirement under section 114 of the Trust Ordnance, consequent to the order of Incorporation of the Movement.

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
161
At a special meeting of the movement on 26 October 1966. The follwing resolution was unanimously adopted:
The council of the Tamil University movement understands that the government is considering the establishment of a Junior University in the Eastern Province. The council therefore, recommends that Blocks 7 & 21 of the lands belonging to the movement at Uppuveli together with the buildings thereon be offered to the government for the establishment of a Junior University for the benefit of students receiving education in the Tamil medium.
Any decision on the future to the Navalar Hall was to be taken after the promulgatien of the new Education Bill by the government.
According to the eighth report of the movement for the year Jan 1,1966 to Dec. 31, 1966 submitted to Annual General Meeting held on 2 February 1967, the membership roll was as follows:
Ordinay 266 Associate
V The flnancial staternent as at 31, October 1966 indicated that the balance brought forward was Rs. 54,785/36 and Subscriptions donations, rents, and sale of produce amounted to Rs. 2,666/94 The total lying to the credit of the movement being Rs. 57,453/27. Expenses amounted to Rs. 6851 10
A meeting of the council held on 4 December 1966 found the resolution regarding the sale of the Inner Harbour land passed at the meeting held on 26-10-1966 ultra vires as the resolution was not embodied in the agenda of that
meeting.
Mr. Selvaratnam, a devoted worker who steered the activities of the movement as General Sec retary after Mr. T. Rajadurai, left for Bangkok. Mr. S. J. Doresamy was appointed to take his place. Two squatters on the Inner Harbour Road land were suocessfully ejected and steps were

Page 99
162
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement to be taken against any future untlawful occupation. The Council was informed of the 500 acre land leased from the government by a special lease bond. Messers. S. Arumugam and P. Kathiravetpillai on behalf the movement leased the land at Kallathu kulam, Nedunkerni. The question of developing the land was to receive the active consideration of the council.
The University Commission Report (Government Sessiona Paper Xvi of 1963 proposed one university with campuses at Colombo, Peradeniya and Jaffna (Section 352) as the Halls of Residence at campuses could not take in more than a fraction of those seoking admission, government may consider setting up University sections in certain selected schools which have reached a sufficientaly high standard and possess the necessary the laboratory equipment, library facilities and trained personnel. The first preference was to be given to a school in“ south Ceylon and next, to a school in the Batticaloa district, provided the necessary standards were reached (Section 355).
Affiliated Instiutions
There are private institutions such as the Buddhist University College (Rosemead Place), Colomdo, Jaffna Colege, (Vaddukoddai, Jaffna) and Navalar Hall, Colombo preparing students for University - degrees and serving a genuine need in the country. as mais centres of instruction for the large numbers who fail to enter the Universities and want to appear for the external examinations of the University of London. The Commission recommended that the Grants Commission considers recognition of these institutions and associate them in some acceptable manner with the campus of the area. (section 356).
The University of Ceylon in its expanded form (setion | 357) as recommended earlier will during the transitional
period consist of:
- a. Central authority of the University
b. the campuses of the University at Peradeniya,

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
163
Colombo and Jaffna and University Colleges and affiliated Colleges associated with campuses in some acceptable manner. (The Campuses Section 360)
The three campuses proposed will be campuses of the University of Ceylon for a limited period only as the affiliated institutions are to develop into independent universities.
Jaffna Campus (Section 361)
Government appears to have accepted in principle of setting up of a cultural university at the Ramanathan College and Parameshwara College premises. Representations have been received on the proposal for a cultural university and it appears to us that the real demand is not for a cultural institution but for instruction at University level for all branches of learning. The Commission did not favour the application of the term university to an institution provid ing instruction solely in subjects that are associated in the popular mind with he expression «Culture,. "We consider it however desirable that a commencement shonld be made by establishing a campus of the University of Ceylon at or near Jaffna and assist that campus to grow up into a University as soon as possible.
The subjcets taught at Vidyalankara and Vidyodaya Universities - two cultural Universities, the government had set up in 1963 (section 141) are:
Vidyalankara University.
.A. Faculty of Languages -
Faculty of Buddhism
Sinhalese, Pali,
Sanskrit, Hindi, English. Buddhist Civilization, Buddhism, Sutra Vinaya, Abi Dhamma, Buddhist Philosophy. History, Economics, Education. Mathematics and Geography.
B. Faculty of Arts C. Fcculty of Science D., Faculty of Philosphy
and Research
2 Philosophy Research.

Page 100
164
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
Vidyodaya University.
A. Faculty of Languages - , Sinhalese, Pali,
and Prakrit, Sanskrit, modern languages
English. B.
Faculty of Buddhism
Theravada Buddhism, Mahayana Buddhism, Buddhist
Culture. C. Faculty of Arts
History, Archaeology. Anthropology, Geography. Economics, Public Administration, Business
Administration,
Education. D. Faculty of Science
Mathematics, Astrology Science. E. Faculty of Philosophy -
Indian Philosophy, Western Philosophy.
In the year 1963, these ware the fields of study that the two cultural universities were engaged in and it was such an institution that Mr S. Natesan. wanted, contrary to the provisions of Sri P. Ramanathan Trust Deed.
It was never the object of the movement, to establish all the faculties of the university at Trincomalee. This question had been fully discussed at the AGM of the TUM held en 30 June 1957 at the Vivekananda Society Hall. The decisions arrived at were as follows:
• To utilise existing faculties and to give the faculties thd most advantageous location. The various faculties may be cited as follows: 1. Faculties of Arts, Science, Religion and Commerce at
Batticaloa.
Faculties of Law, Medicine and Music at Jaffna.
3.
Faculty of Agriculture, and Veterinary Science in the Vavuniya district.
Faculty of Engineering at Trincomalee.
5. Teachers' Institute at Jaffna,

The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
165
It was not intended at any time to establish all the faculties in Trincomalee.
A Committee consisting of Mr. C. Balasingham (Chairman), Mr. C. Arumuganathan, Mr. M.. Kantharatnam, Mr. C. Rnaganathan Q. C, Mr. R. R. Crosette-Thambiah Q. C. Mr. M. Vairavapillai, Professor A. W. Mailvaganam and Mr. P. Kathirvetpillai, as secretary and convenor of the committee. The committee was to reassess the objeetives ef the movement in the light of altered circumstances and conditions and to make recommendations to the Council regarding the utilisation of the assets of the movement for the furtherance of the objectives of the movement. The committee was also to consider the question of running or closing down of
Navalar Hall and to make recommendations. Messers.- S.Sittampalam and C. Kandasamy were co-opted to the committes. The following recommendations were made:
1. An Agricultural And Animal Husbandry Centre with a
Poultry farm to be opened very early.
15 students to be selected at the first instance for training 4 after due notice and publicity.
Provision to be made for cultural activities at the centre to serve as means for the revival of cultural activities in the area.
The student trainees admitted should pay for their food while on the campus.
The Director of the Training Centre' was requested to submit a scheme with necessary details and prospectus.
6.
For the purpose of increasing the financial resources of the movernment, the council should make an appeal to past members. to continue their subscriptions. A copy of the memorandum prepared by Mr. Crossette Thambiah was to be sent to past members along with the appeal,
1.
Immediate stepts to be taken to terminate the lease of the paddy fiield in Tan/balaga mam.

Page 101
166
The Diary of the Tamil University Movement
At this stage Prof. A. W. Mailvaganam resigned from the presidentship of the movement. Prof. A. Sinnatamby
was elected president.
Consequent to banning of foreign university examinations being held here, the movement was faced with the question of running the Navalar Hall or not. After discussions at seyeral meetings of the Council, it was finally decided to close down the Navalar Hall. As the Council was keen on keeping the buildings, negotiations were made for their purchase. But these did not bear fruit. As owners of Navalar halı wanted the return of fo the premises, they were handed back to them and Navalar Hall was closed down.
The movement therefore had to concentrate its attention on the development of the Scbool of Agricultural Srudies at Trincomalee and the development of the leased lands at Trincomalce.
The movement still continues to run the School of Agricultural Studies at Trincomalee and the assets of the movement are earmarked for a future university or a university College at Trincomalee.
A valuable collection over a thosuand volumes of books on science, history, literature, religion, culture etc that were donated by senior members of the movement to the movement library remains in the custody of Mr. K. C. Thangarajah a senior member of the movement,

School of Agriculture
Uppuveli
TRINCOMALEE

Page 102

Staff Quarters exterior view
Dining Hall exterior view

Page 103
Wais voicXO STISNO IME
vaivoimail Hagia

Laboratory in lot 21 Exterior view
900000000000
Laboratory in lot 21 Interior view

Page 104
way toisc IS dol ni xotshod od
waiv 10inand Sol at gods Tod

Well No. 4 in lot 8

Page 105


Page 106
急的
|or 、為其生下了
rt)。

Page 107


Page 108
- Printed at: Kalanilaya Atchabam 303, K

. K. S. Road, Jaffna.