A member of the Karaichi Pradeshiya Sabha has been granted bail after appearing in court on charges related to displaying portraits during last year’s LTTE Heroes’ Week commemorations.
Bharathidasan Ezhilventhan, who represents the Uruthirapuram Division and, according to MP S. Sritharan’s own social media post, also serves as his driver, was summoned to court following legal action filed by the Kilinochchi District Police.
In his statement, Sritharan said Mr. Ezhilventhan was accused of displaying portraits of fallen LTTE cadres during remembrance events held in November 2024. The MP noted that his aide appeared before the court, where attorney Mr. Chirasigan successfully argued for his release on bail.
Sritharan criticized the timing of the case, pointing out that it comes nearly twelve months after the alleged incident — and just as preparations are underway for this year’s Maaveerar Naal (Heroes’ Day) commemorations in November 2025.
He described the move as “an attempt to intimidate and obstruct Tamil national remembrance events,” alleging that the current administration, like previous governments, continues to use legal instruments to suppress Tamil commemorations.
Political Questions Raised
The case has also raised eyebrows over Mr. Ezhilventhan’s dual role. Despite being an elected representative of the Karaichi Pradeshiya Sabha — a position reportedly secured with the backing of MP Sritharan — he continues to serve as the MP’s personal driver.
Political observers note that such an arrangement raises questions about compliance with election laws governing the independence and conduct of elected officials.
Critics have also pointed out the irony of Sritharan publicly acknowledging, on social media, that his Pradeshiya Sabha member continues to function as his driver. After all, it’s not every day you find a politician whose representative literally takes him places — both politically and physically.
