Monument in S. Africa for Indian freedom fighters soon

DURBAN, JULY 22. A monument is going to be built here soon in memory of the Indians who took an active part in south Africa's liberation struggle.

Local activist and author, Prof. Fatima Meer, said the monument would be built in the area of Umbilo in Durban where the Indian community held the 1946 passive resistance campaign against the racist policies during the apartheid regime.

Prof. Meer, a close family friend of the former President, Mr. Nelson Mandela, said the campaign during that period was aimed at drawing the attention of the world and the United Nations into the oppressive policies of the racist rulers of the country.

Prof. Meer said the monument would also be dedicated to the 1952 defiance campaign when Africans and Indians launched a massive campaign throughout the country, regarded as the cornerstone of South Africa's struggle for liberation. ``These campaigns were landmarks in the history of the South African liberation struggle,'' she said, adding ``they demonstrated to the oppressed people that even without arms, they can confront an oppressive government''.

She said the monument would also depict other aspects of the liberation struggle, such as the 1960 Sharpeville massacre, 1976 student uprising and Mr. Mandela's release from prison. ``Our efforts are aimed at ensuring that the next generation will know about the history of the country, as it will be in front of everybody to see. It will also be a great Tourist attraction,'' she said.

- PTI

Send this article to Friends by E-Mail

Section  : International
Previous : India emerging key player in Asia-Pacific region