Thileepan

Thileepan (Rasaiah Parthipan)

Thileepan (also known as Rasaiah Parthipan) was a prominent member of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), a militant organization that sought to create an independent Tamil state in the north and east of Sri Lanka. He is best known for his hunger strike in 1987, which he undertook to protest against the actions of the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) and the Sri Lankan government.

Early Life

Thileepan was born in Sri Lanka and became involved in the Tamil nationalist movement at a young age. He joined the LTTE, where he quickly rose through the ranks due to his dedication and leadership skills.

Role in the LTTE

Thileepan held various positions within the LTTE, including that of a political leader. He was known for his commitment to the Tamil cause and his ability to inspire others. His leadership was instrumental in organizing several key operations and initiatives aimed at furthering the LTTE's objectives.

Hunger Strike

In September 1987, Thileepan began a hunger strike to draw attention to the grievances of the Tamil people and to demand the fulfillment of promises made by the Indian government during the Indo-Sri Lanka Accord. His demands included the withdrawal of the IPKF, the release of political prisoners, and the cessation of Sinhalese colonization in Tamil areas.

Thileepan's hunger strike lasted for 12 days, during which he refused both food and water. Despite widespread appeals for him to end the strike, he remained steadfast in his resolve. Thileepan passed away on September 26, 1987, becoming a martyr for the Tamil cause.

Legacy

Thileepan is remembered as a symbol of sacrifice and resistance among the Tamil people. His death galvanized support for the LTTE and intensified the struggle for Tamil Eelam. Memorials and commemorations are held annually in his honor, particularly in the Tamil diaspora communities around the world.

See Also

• Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam
• Indo-Sri Lanka Accord
• Indian Peace Keeping Force
• Tamil Eelam
• Sri Lankan Civil War