The Hindu

J.SivashanmugamPillai: a tall leader of Tamil Nadu belonging to what was once known Depressed Classes

J.SivashanmugamPillaiwas the first Scheduled Caste member to become the Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker in 1946.He was known for impartiality, with former CM Kamarajsaying, Though a Congressman, he held the scales even. He demitted the office in 1955 to become Member of theUPSCand was elected to the Rajya Sabha in 1962