Salem C. Vijiaraghavachariar: Freedom fighter who fought Kala Paani conviction
Salem C. Vijiaraghavachariar (1852-1944), a prominent Congress leader and the first Tamil to become AICC president, was initially sentenced to 10 years' imprisonment in the Andamans (Kala Paani) after being convicted in the Salem Hindu-Muslim riots case of 1882. He successfully appealed to the High Court of Madras, getting his conviction quashed on January 9, 1883. Known for his rebellious spirit, he also challenged his removal from the Salem Municipal Council and advocated for social reforms like post-puberty marriage for women and daughters' property rights. He played a crucial role in drafting the Swaraj Constitution as part of the Motilal Nehru's panel.
Key Points
- Salem C. Vijiaraghavachariar was a significant figure in the national movement and the first Tamil AICC president.
- He successfully challenged a conviction that would have led to imprisonment in the Andamans (Kala Paani).
- Vijiaraghavachariar was known for his legal acumen and advocacy for social reforms, including women's rights.
- He played a key role in drafting the Swaraj Constitution as part of Motilal Nehru's panel.
- His contributions extended to anti-untouchability campaigns and condemning racial discrimination.
Exam Facts
- Salem C. Vijiaraghavachariar (1852-1944) was the first Tamil to become the All India Congress Committee president (Nagpur session, 1920).
- His conviction in the Salem Hindu-Muslim riots case (August 1882) was quashed on January 9, 1883.
- He was part of the Motilal Nehru's panel that drafted the Swaraj Constitution.
- The C. Vijiaraghavachariar Memorial Library-Public Hall in Salem was opened in July 1951.
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