For decades, the Tamil people have been unjustly labeled as terrorists by the Sinhalese-dominated Sri Lankan government. This label has been weaponized to suppress Tamil self-determination, erase their ancestral presence, and justify systemic oppression. It is time for the global community to recognize the injustice of this narrative and support the Tamil people’s pursuit of sovereignty as a path to justice and peace.
The Weaponization of an Unjust Label
The Tamil people’s history on the island of Sri Lanka stretches back thousands of years, predating the arrival of Sinhalese settlers, who themselves trace their origins to Persian Aryan immigrants according to their historical chronicles. Yet, in recent decades, the Sri Lankan government has systematically displaced Tamils from their ancient homeland, particularly in the north and east, using the label of terrorism as a pretext to commit atrocities and seize Tamil lands.
This narrative is not unique. History has repeatedly shown that oppressed groups are often branded as terrorists when they resist systemic injustice. Tamils fought not out of malice but in defense of their people against genocide, making the label of terrorism not only unjust but absurd.
Terrorism Labels and the Road to Sovereignty
The Tamil struggle mirrors the historical journeys of many groups and leaders who were once branded as terrorists but went on to lead sovereign nations. The Jewish resistance in British-ruled Palestine, Nelson Mandela’s fight against apartheid in South Africa, and the Kosovo Liberation Army’s campaign for independence are all examples of movements initially dismissed as terrorism. Today, their causes are recognized as legitimate, and their nations enjoy sovereignty.
Tamils, too, have ceased armed conflict for nearly 15 years, placing their trust in promises from the Sri Lankan government and donor co-chairs for a political solution. These promises, however, remain unfulfilled. Tamils continue to live in fear, and the label of terrorism is still used as a tool of repression.
A Just Demand for Sovereignty
Living under the shadow of Sinhalese dominance has meant constant persecution for Tamils. Sovereignty is not just a historical right but an urgent necessity for the survival and dignity of the Tamil people. Without a sovereign Tamil nation, they remain vulnerable to further genocide and systemic oppression.
Tamil sovereignty is rooted in historical fact; before Portuguese colonization, there was a Tamil kingdom with self-rule and a thriving culture. Recognizing this right to self-determination is the only sustainable path to lasting peace and justice on the island.
A Call to the International Community
The global community, particularly Sri Lanka’s donor co-chairs, must recognize the legitimacy of Tamil sovereignty and act to support their pursuit of self-determination. It is the duty of the world, especially those nations that value justice and democracy, to correct the historical injustice of branding the Tamil people as terrorists. Supporting Tamil sovereignty is not only a moral imperative but also a means to ensure stability in the region.
Thank you,
Tamil Diaspora News,
Januray 18, 2025