V. Venkatasubba Reddiar

A Pioneer of Puducherry’s Freedom Movement

Early Life

V. Venkatasubba Reddiar was born on 18 December 1909 to Sri Vaithilingam Reddiar and Smt. Vemalamamal. From an early age, he displayed a deep commitment to public service and national freedom.

Role in the Freedom Struggle

V. Venkatasubba Reddiar emerged as a pioneering leader in the struggle to liberate Puducherry from French colonial rule. In 1946, he was elected Mayor of Nettapakkam. Along with the Mayor of Puducherry, Shri K. Muthu Pillai, he raised strong slogans demanding the withdrawal of the French and the merger of Puducherry with the Indian Union.

Acting on the guidance of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the leaders decided to challenge French authority by forming a parallel government—a novel and bold experiment against foreign rule.

Formation of the Parallel Government

On 31 March 1954, twelve leaders, including V. Venkatasubba Reddiar, formed a parallel government and intensified the freedom movement. This sustained resistance ultimately compelled the French Government to negotiate with the Government of India.

Following dialogue between the Prime Ministers of France and India, the French Government agreed to merge Puducherry with the Indian Union on 13 October 1954. Puducherry finally attained freedom from French rule on 1 November 1954.

Political Career

With the establishment of the Puducherry Legislative Assembly on 1 July 1963, V. Venkatasubba Reddiar became the Public Works Minister. In subsequent elections, he was elected as Chief Minister of Puducherry, serving from 11 September 1964 to 8 April 1967, and again from 6 March 1968 to 17 September 1968.

Contribution to Cooperative Movement

V. Venkatasubba Reddiar served Puducherry in several capacities. As President of the Pondicherry State Cooperative Bank, he implemented innovative schemes that strengthened cooperative institutions. His contributions earned him the title “Father of the Cooperative Movement in Puducherry.”

Legacy

A visionary leader, freedom fighter and administrator, V. Venkatasubba Reddiar dedicated his life to the service of Puducherry and its people. He passed away on 6 June 1982.

Commemorative Postage Stamp

In recognition of his invaluable contributions to the freedom movement and public life, India Post is pleased to issue a Commemorative Postage Stamp on V. Venkatasubba Reddiar.