In a vigil held on Tuesday evening at Adampan, the 36th anniversary of the sacrifice of 2nd Lt Maalathy, the first woman fighter in the Tamil Eelam liberation struggle, was observed. Born in Mannar in 1967, Maalathy's life and legacy were commemorated at her residence as family, friends, and fellow activists gathered to pay tribute.
Driven by the harrowing conditions faced by Tamil women in the North-East at the hands of both the Sri Lankan Army and the Indian Army, Maalathy took up arms. The oppressive circumstances fueled her resolve to fight for justice and liberation.
In 1987, at the age of 20, 2nd Lt Maalathy made the ultimate sacrifice, martyred in a face-to-face battle against the Indian Army in the Koppai area of Jaffna. Her bravery and commitment marked her as the first woman to lay down her life as a hero in the history of the Tamil Eelam liberation struggle.
In tribute to her indomitable spirit, battalions were formed in Maalathy's name. Despite attempts to erase her memory, Maalathy's legacy persists, and memorial events are held annually in her hometown of Adampan.
Yesterday's memorial service saw Maalathy's parents and relatives gather to honour her memory. Garlands and flowers were laid on her portrait as a gesture of respect and remembrance.
