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On the first death anniversary of slain Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) leader K Armstrong, his wife Porkodi Armstrong launched a new political outfit, the Tamil Maanila Bahujan Samaj Katchi, in Pothur, Thiruvallur district on Friday, July 5.
The launch came months after Porkodi’s removal as the Tamil Nadu coordinator of the BSP. A large gathering of over 1,000 supporters participated in a peace march that began at Vallalar Memorial and concluded at Armstrong’s memorial in Pothur. The event was held under tight security.
According to reports, Porkodi hoisted the party’s flag, featuring a blue elephant holding a pen, set against a white and blue backdrop, on a 32-foot flagpole. Later in the day, Armstrong’s daughter, Savithri Bhai, unveiled a statue of her father at the memorial.
Among the notable attendees was Kamala T Gavai, mother of Chief Justice of India BR Gavai, who offered a strong endorsement of Porkodi and paid tribute to Armstrong’s legacy. “Like Ambedkar, Armstrong fought hard for justice. He fought for people from downtrodden communities and was a living example of Buddha’s principles,” she said, adding, “Porkodi is not alone. We are here to support her,” according to Times of India.
Leaders across party lines paid respects at the memorial. Those present included BJP Tamil Nadu president Nainar Nagendran, VCK chief Thol Thirumavalavan, PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss, and NTK coordinator Seeman.
Armstrong, a well-known Ambedkarite and Buddhist, was hacked to death on July 5, 2024, near his under-construction home in Perambur, Chennai. His murder sent shockwaves through Tamil Nadu and raised serious concerns over law and order in the state. So far, 27 people have been arrested, and the case is currently in trial.
