Appapillai Amirthalingam facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
A. Amirthalingam
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| Leader of the Opposition, Sri Lanka | |
| In office 4 August 1977 – 24 October 1983 |
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| Preceded by | J. R. Jayewardene, UNP |
| Succeeded by | A. Bandaranaike, SLFP |
| Leader, Tamil United Liberation Front | |
| In office 1977–1989 |
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| Preceded by | S. J. V. Chelvanayakam |
| Succeeded by | M. Sivasithamparam |
| Member of the Ceylonese Parliament for Vaddukoddai |
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| In office 1956–1970 |
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| Preceded by | V. Veerasingam, ACTC |
| Succeeded by | A. Thiagarajah, ACTC |
| Member of Parliament for Kankesanthurai |
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| In office 1977–1983 |
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| Preceded by | S. J. V. Chelvanayakam, ITAK |
| Member of Parliament for Nationa List |
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| In office 1989–1989 |
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| Succeeded by | Mavai Senathirajah, TULF |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 26 August 1927 Pannagam, Vaddukoddai, British Ceylon |
| Died | 13 July 1989 (aged 61) 342/2 Baudhaloka Mawatha, Colombo, Sri Lanka |
| Nationality |  Sri Lankan |
| Political party | Illankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi |
| Other political affiliations |
Tamil United Liberation Front |
| Alma mater | Ceylon Law College |
| Profession | Lawyer |
| Ethnicity | Sri Lankan Tamil |
| Website | amirthalingam.com |
Appapillai Amirthalingam (Tamil: அப்பாப்பிள்ளை அமிர்தலிங்கம்) was an important Sri Lankan Tamil politician. He was born on August 26, 1927, and sadly passed away on July 13, 1989. Amirthalingam served as a Member of Parliament and even became the Leader of the Opposition in Sri Lanka. He was a strong voice for the Tamil community.
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Who Was A. Amirthalingam?
Appapillai Amirthalingam was a well-known lawyer and politician from Sri Lanka. He dedicated his life to serving the people and working for their rights. He is remembered for his leadership roles in the Sri Lankan government.
Early Life and Education
Amirthalingam was born in a place called Pannagam, in Vaddukoddai, which was then part of British Ceylon. From a young age, he showed great promise. He went on to study law at the Ceylon Law College. This education prepared him for a career where he could help others.
A Career in Politics
After becoming a lawyer, Amirthalingam decided to enter politics. He believed in making a difference for his community. His political journey began in the mid-1950s.
Representing the People
Amirthalingam was first elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) in 1956. An MP is someone chosen by the people to represent them in the country's parliament. He represented the Vaddukoddai area for many years. Later, he also represented the Kankesanthurai area. He worked hard to bring the concerns of his constituents to the national stage.
Leading the Opposition
In 1977, Amirthalingam achieved a very important position. He became the Leader of the Opposition in Sri Lanka. The Leader of the Opposition is usually the head of the largest political party that is not part of the government. Their job is to challenge the government's policies and offer different ideas. This role made him a key figure in Sri Lankan politics.
A Voice for Tamil Rights
Amirthalingam was a prominent leader of the Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF). This political party aimed to protect and promote the rights of the Tamil people in Sri Lanka. He became the leader of TULF in 1977 and held this position until his death. He worked tirelessly to find peaceful solutions for the issues faced by the Tamil community.
His Legacy
Appapillai Amirthalingam was a respected figure who worked for justice and equality. He was known for his strong speeches and his dedication to his beliefs. Sadly, he lost his life in 1989 due to political violence. His contributions to Sri Lankan politics and his efforts for the Tamil community are still remembered today.
