_edited.png)
NewsDecode | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: India and its neighbourhood relations; International issues
For Students:
From the UPSC perspective, the following elements are critical:
Mains level: India-Sri Lanka relations; Tamil issue in Sri Lanka; State policies on land rights.
Prelims level: Sri Lanka - political and geographical context, Tamil community, and constitutional framework.
Why in the News?
Sri Lankan President Anura Dissanayake recently pledged to return lands seized by state agencies to Tamil families in the country’s north and east. This commitment aligns with longstanding demands from the Tamil community, which has faced historical challenges concerning land rights and resettlement post-civil war.
Key Issues Surrounding Tamil Land Rights in Sri Lanka:
Historical Context: The civil war (1983–2009) led to the displacement of Tamil families from the Northern and Eastern provinces of Sri Lanka, with significant portions of land under military occupation or government control even post-war.
Current Situation: Despite numerous calls from Tamil political groups, community organizations, and international bodies, land reclamation for displaced Tamil families has been slow. Government and military presence in these regions remains high, hindering free movement and land ownership for local communities.
Tamil Nationalism and Political Autonomy: Land reclamation is intrinsically tied to broader Tamil demands for autonomy and cultural rights. Many Tamil leaders view land ownership as a step toward restoring ethnic identity and economic independence within the provinces.
President Dissanayake’s Pledge: Policy and Implications
Domestic Reconciliation Efforts: Restoring Tamil lands is part of Dissanayake’s broader reconciliation efforts to bridge the ethnic divide between the Sinhalese majority and Tamil minority. This policy intends to ease tensions by addressing Tamil grievances that have historically fuelled demands for greater autonomy.
Impact on Military Landholdings: Dissanayake’s commitment suggests potential scaling down of military control in Tamil-dominated areas. This shift could increase trust in the government among Tamil populations but might encounter resistance from military factions.
International Observations and Influence: The international community, including India and human rights groups, has often urged Sri Lanka to resolve land disputes and promote inclusive policies. The president’s pledge may influence international perceptions of Sri Lanka's commitment to human rights and reconciliation, especially given recent pressures from the United Nations and other global forums.
Strategic Implications for India:
India-Sri Lanka Relations: India has a vested interest in the welfare of the Tamil community due to cultural and ethnic ties with Tamil Nadu. Tamil rights and regional stability remain key issues in India’s diplomatic agenda with Sri Lanka, affecting bilateral cooperation in trade, security, and development.
Geopolitical Balance: Dissanayake’s commitment could recalibrate the geopolitical balance, as India has consistently advocated for Tamil autonomy and land restitution. India’s continued support could improve cross-border relations but may draw cautionary responses from Sri Lankan nationalists wary of perceived foreign interference.
Opportunities for Enhanced Dialogue: India could use this development to deepen diplomatic channels, proposing joint cultural initiatives and developmental programs in Tamil regions, thus strengthening India-Sri Lanka relations while supporting Tamil community welfare.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Resistance from Nationalist Factions: Some Sinhalese nationalist groups and certain military segments oppose land redistribution, citing security concerns. Balancing national security with Tamil rights will be crucial for effective implementation.
Monitoring and Accountability: Transparency in land restoration processes is essential. Establishing an independent oversight mechanism could ensure fair and timely restitution, reinforcing government credibility in the region.
Broader Constitutional Reforms: Addressing land rights can be a precursor to deeper constitutional reforms. Empowering Tamil regions via land restitution could pave the way for devolution of powers within a federal structure, aligning with the demands of Tamil political entities.
Way Forward
Inclusive Policy Framework: Sri Lanka should adopt a structured policy that recognises the unique cultural and historical needs of Tamil regions, potentially drafting a comprehensive land reform bill with multi-stakeholder input.
India’s Role in Mediation and Support: India can play a supportive role by providing expertise in land management and rehabilitation, fostering trust through people-centric initiatives that align with both Tamil welfare and Sri Lankan sovereignty.
Continued International Oversight: International organizations can support through monitoring and capacity-building programs aimed at post-war reconciliation and sustainable development in the affected areas.
Mains PYQ
Q: "Discuss the ethnic conflicts in Sri Lanka and India’s role in facilitating peace in the region." (UPSC IAS Mains)
_edited.png)
Comments