Bloodshed ’62

Description

Bloodshed ’62

The Book In 1962, a group of military and police officers, along with a member of the Ceylon Civil Service, orchestrated a plan to overthrow the democratically elected government of Mrs. Sirimavo Ratwatte Dias Bandaranaike, the world’s first woman Prime Minister. Their objective was t o
establish a military junta, seizing control of the nation’s governance. Some analysts interpreted this attempted coup as a reaction to the significant political and social changes that had unfolded since the power shift of 1956. This transition marked the end of dominance by the minority “Brown
Sahib” elite and the rise of the common majority, leading to a perceived erosion of status and privilege among the conspirators.

Despite meticulous planning, their scheme was thwarted mere hours before its intended execution, ensuring the preservation of Sri Lanka’s fledgling democracy. This failed coup d’état remains a pivotal moment in the nation’s history, underscoring both the fragility and resilience of democratic governance in the face of internal challenges.In the initial chapters of the book, the transition period and its effects on post-independence politics, as well as the regime change in 1956, are discussed in detail. Subsequent chapters delve into the backgrounds and career profiles of the coup leaders, followed by a comprehensive account of the blueprint for “Operation Holdfast,” the codename given to the entire episode by the conspirators. The book also explores the plotters’ intentions regarding Prime Minister Sirimavo Bandaranaike. The subsequent arrests of the conspirators, the enactment of new laws, and the establishment of special courts are covered extensively.

The book then proceeds to discuss the verdict and conviction of the eleven accused individuals, including all six leaders. It also examines their appeal to the Privy Council in the UK and the subsequent acquittal of all the accused. Furthermore, the alleged involvement of two former Prime
Ministers in the conspiracy are critically analysed. The final chapter offers a brief examination of the aftermath of the failed coup attempt of 1962.