The "Tamil question" in the context of India-Sri Lanka relations pertains to the long-standing issues faced by the Tamil minority in Sri Lanka. Primarily located in the Northern and Eastern provinces, this community seeks greater autonomy and devolution of powers to address their historical grievances related to language, culture, and political representation.
During President Wickremesinghe's visit to India, a significant outcome was the adoption of a vision document by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Sri Lankan President. This document aims to enhance their economic partnership, focusing on key areas such as tourism, trade, power, higher education, skill development, and connectivity.
They also discussed finalizing an agreement for the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), which would establish a fintech connection between the two nations. Furthermore, a feasibility study for a petroleum pipeline was proposed, highlighting the importance of addressing mutual security interests and sensitivities.
In his address, Prime Minister Modi made a compelling case for the implementation of the Thirteenth Amendment and the conduct of Provincial Council elections in Sri Lanka. He underscored the necessity for the Sri Lankan Tamil community to live with dignity and respect, pointing out that addressing the Tamil question is crucial for future bilateral relations.
The Tamil issue has historically been a source of tension in India-Sri Lanka relations. If the future economic partnership does not adequately address the concerns of the Tamil community, it may be perceived as incomplete. This oversight could potentially strain the overall relationship between the two countries.
The Thirteenth Amendment to the Constitution of Sri Lanka, enacted in 1987, was a significant legislative measure aimed at creating Provincial Councils. This amendment sought to devolve powers to the provinces, establishing a framework for regional governance and addressing the grievances of ethnic minorities, particularly the Tamil community.
Key provisions of the Thirteenth Amendment include the establishment of Provincial Councils and the recognition of Sinhala and Tamil as the official languages. English was designated as a "link language" to facilitate communication across different linguistic communities.
However, implementing the Thirteenth Amendment has faced challenges, particularly in devolving powers related to land, police, and finance. The government continues to emphasize the need for an acceptable structure that fosters effective devolution without exacerbating tensions.
The Thirteenth Amendment is a pivotal milestone in Sri Lanka's political landscape, representing an effort to address regional autonomy and power-sharing. Nonetheless, its effectiveness and complete implementation remain contentious issues, with debates surrounding the actual empowerment of the provinces.
The achievement of the Thirteenth Amendment's intended goals has been debated. While it established Provincial Councils and recognized linguistic rights, questions persist about the depth of devolution and the genuine empowerment of the provinces, especially in light of opposition from Sinhala nationalists.
Q1. What is the Tamil question in Sri Lanka?
Answer: The Tamil question refers to the issues faced by the Tamil minority in Sri Lanka regarding autonomy, political representation, and cultural rights, particularly in the Northern and Eastern provinces.
Q2. What is the Thirteenth Amendment?
Answer: The Thirteenth Amendment, enacted in 1987, created Provincial Councils in Sri Lanka to devolve powers and address the demands for regional autonomy from the Tamil community.
Q3. What are the key provisions of the Thirteenth Amendment?
Answer: Key provisions include the establishment of Provincial Councils, recognition of Sinhala and Tamil as official languages, and the designation of English as a link language to promote communication.
Q4. What challenges does the Thirteenth Amendment face?
Answer: Major challenges include devolving powers related to land, police, and finance, as well as opposition from Sinhala nationalists regarding power-sharing with Tamil provinces.
Q5. How does the Tamil issue affect India-Sri Lanka relations?
Answer: The Tamil issue can create tensions in India-Sri Lanka relations, as unresolved concerns may hinder economic partnerships and diplomatic cooperation.
Question 1: What does the "Tamil question" refer to in Sri Lanka?
A) Economic disparities
B) Cultural representation
C) Autonomy of Tamil regions
D) Language rights
Correct Answer: C
Question 2: What year was the Thirteenth Amendment enacted?
A) 1985
B) 1987
C) 1990
D) 1995
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: Which language is recognized as a "link language" in Sri Lanka?
A) Tamil
B) Sinhala
C) English
D) Hindi
Correct Answer: C
Question 4: What was a major outcome of President Wickremesinghe's visit to India?
A) Establishment of trade routes
B) Adoption of a vision document
C) Implementation of the Thirteenth Amendment
D) Increase in tourism
Correct Answer: B
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