In a pointed statement, former combatant Kulasingam Navakumar, known as Palan, criticized Tamil politicians for exploiting Maaveerar Naal (Heroes’ Day) for their political gain. Speaking at a media conference held yesterday at the Jaffna Press Club, Navakumar argued that the annual commemoration of fallen fighters has devolved into a business opportunity and a vote magnet for those who were never part of the armed struggle.
“Since the end of the war in 2009, I have commemorated Maaveerar Naal at home, and no one can stop this,” he said. “But Maaveerar Naal has become a business. It has turned into fodder for politicians.” He pointed out that while these leaders now claim to honour the parents of fallen heroes, they have never experienced the losses these families endured, nor did they ever send their children to battle. “Politicians who exploit the sacrifices of heroes for their political interests were never on the battlefield and have no real connection to the struggles or losses endured by the families of our fallen comrades. As an ex-combatant, I strongly condemn this.”
Navakumar said he is concerned about Tamil politicians attempting to sway grieving parents, often visiting families of the fallen during election periods to request votes. “Some are even trying to secure seats in Parliament by promising that only they can preserve and ‘light up’ Maaveerar Naal. My message to the parents of the heroes is to give a clear response to such insincere gestures. They should be able to visit the shrines of their children and pay their respects without political interference.” He also questioned whether funds from overseas would even be permitted, and whether local government officials would genuinely support the community’s memorial efforts. “Sometimes, these politicians end up fighting in the homes of fallen heroes. It’s an exploitation of the sacrifices and emotions tied to these lives.”
As a former fighter with two decades on the battlefield, Navakumar says he feels strongly that politicians should stay away from Maaveerar Naal organizing committees and that these should be led by the families of the fallen, who truly understand the significance of the day. “Politicians should focus on their politics instead of using the sacrifices of heroes as a platform. I trust that the families will handle the day with dignity and respect."
