India’s Role in Resolving Sri Lanka’s Ethnic Issue

Syllabus:

GS-2:

India and its Neighbourhood , Effect of Policies & Politics of Countries on India’s Interests

Focus:

India’s symbolic gesture in renaming the Jaffna Cultural Centre has sparked discussions about the ethnic issues in Sri Lanka. With India’s long-standing involvement in Sri Lanka’s peace process, the focus has shifted to the effective implementation of the 13th Amendment to address Tamil autonomy.

India’s Role in Resolving Sri Lanka’s Ethnic Issue

Symbolic Gesture: India-Sri Lanka Relations

  • Indian Contribution to Cultural Ties: India’s decision to name the Jaffna Cultural Centre after Thiruvalluvar strengthens bilateral ties with Sri Lanka.
  • Correction in Naming: The Centre was initially named without Jaffna, leading to agitation, which was corrected to Jaffna Thiruvalluvar Cultural Centre.
  • Significance of India-Sri Lanka Relations: A shared history and culture form the foundation of the two nations’ ties.

Historical Context: Ethnic Problem in Sri Lanka:

  • Roots of the Ethnic Problem: The Tamil issue escalated after the 1983 anti-Tamil riots, drawing India into mediation.
  • India’s Mediation and Intervention: India acted as both a mediator and active participant in resolving the conflict.
  • Indo-Lanka Accord of 1987: Resulted in the 13th Amendment (13A), creating Provincial Councils and granting limited autonomy to Tamil-majority regions.
  • Opposition to the Accord: The JVP and LTTE opposed the Accord. The LTTE sought a separate Tamil Eelam, which India opposed.

The Implementation of the 13th Amendment (13A):

  • Lack of Full Implementation: Despite over 35 years, the 13A has not been fully implemented in Tamil-majority areas.
  • India’s Persistent Push for 13A: Indian leaders have consistently urged Sri Lanka for full implementation of the Amendment.
  • The Role of Prime Minister Modi: PM Modi’s silence on 13A during President Dissanayake’s visit raises questions about India’s stance.
  • Sri Lankan Political Climate: The NPP and its mixed views on 13A, with some leaders supporting its implementation, remain significant in the debate.

Local Bodies vs. Provincial Councils:

  • Debate on Local Bodies: Sri Lanka focuses on local elections, but local bodies are not substitutes for Provincial Councils.
  • Limited Capacity of Local Bodies: Local governments face issues like urbanization, limited resources, and reliance on fiscal transfers.
  • Need for Provincial Councils: Provincial Councils are vital to address political, social, and economic concerns regionally.
  • Constitutional Recommendations: The 2017 Constitutional Assembly report emphasized the need for provinces as the main unit of devolution.

A Path to Lasting Ethnic Peace in Sri Lanka:

  • Addressing Historical Misunderstandings: JVP leaders must stop viewing Provincial Councils as India’s creation.
  • Evolving Constitutional Framework: Sri Lanka’s three constitutions have drawn from various global systems.
  • The People’s Democratic Right: Sri Lankans deserve a political solution based on democratic spirit and inclusivity.
  • Opportunity for the NPP: With NPP’s political strength, Sri Lanka has a chance to resolve ethnic tensions.
  • Need for Political Will: Full implementation of 13A and addressing economic and political factors are crucial for peace.

Conclusion

Sri Lanka is at a pivotal moment where its political leaders have the opportunity to resolve ethnic issues through constitutional reforms and the full implementation of 13A. India’s role should focus on encouraging Sri Lanka’s internal solutions rather than imposing external ones.

Source: TH

Mains Practice Question:

Examine the role of India in Sri Lanka’s ethnic conflict. How can the full implementation of the 13th Amendment contribute to resolving the issue?