India Reproposes Land Connectivity Project to Sri Lanka, but Fails to Engage Tamils — A Repeat of Past Mistakes
Colombo, Sri Lanka – April 9,2025
As India once again proposes the long-discussed land bridge between Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu and Talaimannar in Sri Lanka, Tamil voices are being left out of the conversation — a pattern that mirrors historic missteps such as the 1987 Indo-Lanka Accord, where India negotiated directly with the Sri Lankan state without consulting the Tamil people.
It is deeply concerning that even today, when projects like the India-Sri Lanka Land Bridge could have far-reaching impacts on the Tamil homeland in the North and East, India has not made any effort to consult or engage with the Tamil community. Decisions that affect the Tamil people must not be made behind closed doors between New Delhi and Colombo, as was done during talks between Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and Sri Lankan President J.R. Jayewardene.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi must break from this outdated and exclusionary approach. Before promoting the benefits of a land bridge, he must speak directly to the Tamil people — not just to the Sri Lankan government. Tamil communities deserve a clear explanation of how this project will affect their land, economy, environment, and culture. This engagement should occur independently of the unresolved political question of Tamil sovereignty and rights.
India’s Proposal Still Awaiting Sri Lanka’s Response
During Prime Minister Modi’s recent visit to Sri Lanka, India formally reintroduced the proposal to connect the two nations via a land route. The project draws inspiration from the ancient Adam’s Bridge (Ram Setu), a natural limestone formation stretching across the Palk Strait. It envisions new road and rail links to boost regional connectivity, trade, and tourism.
Although first proposed in 2002, and later discussed under various administrations, the plan has remained dormant. Notably, it was excluded from the joint statement following President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s recent trip to New Delhi. However, India raised the matter again during Modi’s latest visit. According to reports, the Government of Sri Lanka has yet to respond formally.
As he departed Sri Lanka, Prime Minister Modi visited the Ram Setu site, underscoring its religious, historical, and cultural importance in Hindu tradition.
Trade Ties and ETCA Discussions Resume
Alongside the land bridge proposal, Sri Lanka has requested an increase in its apparel export quota under the Economic and Technical Cooperation Agreement (ETCA) — from 8 million to 50 million units. This comes in the wake of increased tariffs (44%) imposed by the United States on Sri Lankan exports. The Indian government is reportedly considering this request as trade discussions under ETCA are expected to resume.
Conclusion
India must not repeat its historical mistake of excluding Tamils from decisions that directly impact them. Whether it’s the 1987 Accord or the current land bridge proposal, any plan involving the Tamil homeland must involve the Tamil people. Transparency, dialogue, and mutual respect are essential if India seeks genuine regional cooperation.
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