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Picture Courtesy: The Hindu

Context:

India's naming of the Jaffna Cultural Centre after Thiruvalluvar symbolizes cultural ties while reinforcing its influence amid Sri Lanka’s Tamil issue and 13A debate.

India’s stance in Sri Lanka’s Tamil issue

India’s involvement in Sri Lanka’s Tamil issue started after the 1983 anti-Tamil pogrom, which prompted India to act as a negotiator and later as an active player in settling the ethnic conflict. This involvement led to the Indo-Lanka Accord of 1987 and the introduction of the 13th Amendment (13A) to Sri Lanka’s Constitution.

The 13th amendment established Provincial Councils with limited autonomy, aiming to address Tamil grievances. However, the amendment has faced opposition from both Sinhalese nationalist groups, like the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), and Tamil separatist forces, such as the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).

Successive Sri Lankan governments have been reluctant to fully devolve powers, especially regarding land and police powers, fearing it could fuel separatist sentiments.'

India has consistently urged Sri Lanka to fully implement 13A, though recent developments suggest a potential recalibration of India’s stance.

What steps should Sri Lanka take to achieve lasting reconciliation and stability?

Sri Lanka should fully implement the 13th Amendment, including holding Provincial Council elections and devolving powers to Tamil-majority regions. 

The ruling coalition, led by the JVP and President Dissanayake, must recognize that Provincial Councils are not merely an Indian creation but a product of Sri Lanka’s political evolution. A balanced approach that respects Tamil aspirations while maintaining national unity is essential.

The Sri Lankan government should draft a new constitution that guarantees equality for all citizens and supports democracy. By managing Tamil grievances through meaningful devolution, Sri Lanka can achieve long lasting peace and stability.

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Source: 

THE HINDU