Abstract

 The conflict between the Tamil minority and the Sinhalese majority in Sri Lanka intensified during the mid-20th century, rooted in colonial-era policies and nationalist strategies adopted after independence. During British rule, the Tamil minority enjoyed disproportionate representation in civil services, education, and administration, which created a sense of deprivation among the Sinhalese majority. After independence, political power shifted to the Sinhalese, who, in reaction, implemented policies that politically and economically marginalized the Tamils.