The Sri Lankan Civil War: A Historical Overview-by Kalani-eLanka
The Sri Lankan Civil War was a protracted and devastating conflict that lasted from 1983 to 2009, fought between the Sri Lankan government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), a separatist militant organization seeking an independent Tamil state in the northern and eastern regions of Sri Lanka.
The roots of the civil war can be traced back to ethnic tensions between the Sinhalese majority and the Tamil minority. After Sri Lanka gained independence from British rule in 1948, successive governments implemented policies that marginalized Tamils, such as the Sinhala Only Act of 1956, which made Sinhala the official language, and university admission policies that reduced Tamil representation. These grievances led to the rise of Tamil nationalist movements demanding greater rights and autonomy.
The conflict escalated on July 23, 1983, in what became known as “Black July,” when anti-Tamil riots erupted following the killing of 13 Sri Lankan soldiers by the LTTE. Thousands of Tamil civilians were killed, and many more were displaced. This event solidified LTTE’s support among Tamil communities and marked the beginning of a full-scale civil war.
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Major Phases of the War
The war went through several phases, characterized by ceasefires, peace talks, and intense military engagements. Key events included:
- Operation Liberation (1987): The Sri Lankan military launched a large-scale offensive against the LTTE strongholds in the north, prompting India’s intervention through the Indo-Sri Lanka Accord. The Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) was deployed but faced resistance from both the LTTE and Sinhalese nationalists, leading to its withdrawal in 1990.
- Ceasefires and Peace Attempts: Several ceasefires were brokered, notably in 2002 when the Norwegian-mediated peace process attempted to bring a lasting solution. However, talks eventually collapsed, and hostilities resumed.
- Final Phase (2006-2009): Under President Mahinda Rajapaksa, the Sri Lankan military launched a decisive offensive, capturing key LTTE strongholds, including Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu. In May 2009, the Sri Lankan military defeated the LTTE, killing its leader Velupillai Prabhakaran and effectively ending the war.
Consequences of the War
The civil war resulted in the deaths of an estimated 80,000 to 100,000 people, with thousands more missing or displaced. The conflict left deep scars on Sri Lankan society, with concerns over human rights violations, war crimes, and the need for reconciliation. Post-war efforts have focused on resettling displaced individuals, demining affected areas, and rebuilding infrastructure, although political and ethnic tensions remain.
Legacy and Reconciliation
Efforts towards reconciliation include the establishment of the Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC) in 2010 and various initiatives to promote ethnic harmony. However, challenges persist, particularly regarding accountability for war crimes, political representation of Tamils, and the integration of former LTTE cadres into society.
The Sri Lankan Civil War remains one of the most significant conflicts in South Asia, shaping the nation’s political and social landscape. While the guns have fallen silent, the journey towards true peace and unity continues.
