The recent expression of India’s concern over Sri Lanka’s lack of progress on the Tamil issue has brought into focus the multifaceted facets of the India-Sri Lanka relationship. This article outlines the current issues, historical context, and possible future directions shaped by policy decisions and politics of both countries.
The Tamil Issue in Sri Lanka
India, during the 51st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, highlighted the need for states’ responsibility in promoting and protecting human rights. This statement was spurred by the ongoing crisis in Sri Lanka. The crisis shows how a debt-driven economy can negatively affect living standards and the capacity-building of its citizens.
In the aftermath of Sri Lanka’s civil war which ended in 2009, human rights concerns persist due to persevering militarisation, especially in Tamil-majority areas, repression, and the diminishing space for dissent. Survivors are still seeking justice for war crimes, revealing the urgent necessity for accountability and political solutions.
A Historical Overview of the Tamil Issue
Sri Lanka is composed mainly of Sinhalese (74.9%) and Sri Lankan Tamils (11.2%). These two groups, divided not only by ethnicity but also by religion, were both key players in the country’s power disputes since colonial times. The British favored Tamils which led to feelings of isolation among the Sinhalese. Post-independence, the Sinhalese gained power and gradually marginalised the Tamils leading to the formation of the LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam) in 1976.
The ensuing civil war lasted nearly three decades, with its end marked by the killing of the LTTE leader by the Sri Lankan government in May 2009. Despite the conclusion of the war, instances of enforced disappearances, torture, and the controversial Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) targeting mainly Tamils have continued to raise alarming human rights concerns.
Effects of Sri Lanka’s Policies on India
India faces several challenges due to the ongoing Tamil issue in Sri Lanka. Srilankan Tamils seeking refuge in Tamil Nadu following the civil war have yet to return due to concerns over safety and stability. This has created a daunting task for India regarding their rehabilitation.
Domestically, India faces growing protests and criticism for allegedly turning a blind eye to the plight of the Srilankan Tamils in order to maintain good diplomatic ties with Sri Lanka. On a strategic level, India often finds itself having to trade off Tamil minority rights for its economic and security interests.
India-Sri Lanka Relations: Other Key Issues
There are other persistent issues affecting the bilateral relationship between India and Sri Lanka. These include the recurring arrests and killings of Indian fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy, project disruptions such as the cancellation of the East Coast Terminal project in 2021, and the growing influence of China, Sri Lanka’s largest investor.
Another factor is the 13th Amendment of the Sri Lankan Constitution which calls for devolution of power to provincial councils, seen as an important step towards addressing the Tamil people’s demand for equality, justice, peace, and respect within a united Sri Lanka.
The Way Forward
The road forward lies in Sri Lanka focusing on capacity-building and empowerment of its citizens by devolving power to the grassroots level. On India’s part, nurturing its Neighbourhood First policy with Sri Lanka is crucial to safeguarding its strategic interests in the Indian Ocean region.
UPSC Civil Services Examination Questions
In recent years, the India-Sri Lanka relationship has been a topic of interest in the UPSC Civil Services Examination. Past questions include discussions on trade relations between the two countries and how domestic factors influence foreign policy. Detailed answers have been provided for better understanding and preparation of future aspirants in the examination.
Last Modified: February 18, 2024