Question

“The law enacted in 1956 and other constitutional provisions led to major conflict between the two communities in Sri Lanka.” Support the statement.

Answer 1

The law enacted in 1956 and other constitutional provisions in Sri Lanka created deep divisions between the Sinhala and Tamil communities, leading to ethnic conflicts.

The major reasons for this conflict were:

1. Sinhala as the Only Official Language (1956 Act): The Sinhala only Act of 1956 declared Sinhala as the sole official language of Sri Lanka, disregarding Tamil, which was spoken by a significant minority. This policy discriminated against Tamils in government jobs and education, creating resentment.
2. Preferential Policies for Sinhalese: The government promoted Sinhala speakers in government positions and university admissions. Such actions caused economic and educational difficulties for Tamil-speaking citizens.
3. Denial of Equal Political Rights: The Sri Lankan Constitution established Buddhism as the state religion, thus distancing Hindus and Christians from the Tamil population. Tamils were denied equal political representation, making it harder to express their concerns democratically.
4. Growing Ethnic Tensions and Civil War: The marginalization of Tamils prompted calls for an independent Tamil state (Tamil Eelam). This led to a civil war between the Sri Lankan government and Tamil militant groups such as the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).