Tamil Diplomat

Ethnic propotions chaged due to war environment: says the Leader of the opposition Sampanthar

A war situation was created in the country in the past. Tamil people sought refuge in several countries including India. This has caused differences in ethnic proportions, the Leader of the opposition Era Sampanthan.

The Development Committee meeting was held in Trincomalee District Secretariat yesterday. Commenting on the ethnic proportion in Trincomalee he said as above. He further said, ” When we are speaking about ethnic proportions, it is necessary that we talk on the basis of the proportions existing prior to war environment.

During 1983 the ethnic proportion was Tamils 42%, Muslims 32% and Sinhalese 26% . But due war and migration abroad, this had drastically changed.

This year is an important year. We may have to encounter several elections this year. Half the term of office of the Government had expired. Hence, we are in a crucial period where we had expedite the completion of Development works” , he said.