Srilanka's Post-Conflict Woes: Let the terrorism end

The book gives an insight into the problems faced by the Sri Lankan government in the post-war scenario. The military defeat of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) has almost ended the decade long conflict. While it is true that the LTTE's presence is not felt much today, it is equally important to note that its support base continues to remain intact. The LTTE and the new - born organisations claiming to be protectors of human rights are now lobbying in the corridors of power within the international community, seeking intervention and action into alleged war crimes. Their clout has been so powerful that even the Sri Lankan government has found it hard to convince the UN authorities of the actual state of affairs. It cannot be disputed that human rights abuse in any form must be prevented. But when it concerns Sri Lanka, the allegations are far more complex and deep rooted.

The allegations against Sri Lanka are only a decoy to secretly reinforce the LTTE, the worn-out organisation which suffered a decisive defeat. The propaganda now raised is yet another facet of ideological extremism that has the potential to start a fresh round of conflict. Sri Lanka's genuine attempts to rehabilitate and render better living conditions to the people of the war-torn area are now eclipsed by charges of alleged war crimes. Unfortunately, there has been no real effort to find out the actual state of affairs. Unless and otherwise the underlying problems are properly addressed, no endeavour will make any progress except to heap more accusations and criticism.

Mr. Joemon Joseph, the Honorary Consul of Sri Lanka in Kerala is also the author of CSR - Corporate Racism. While that book dealt with the extension of ethical principles across the spectrum to all business establishments, the present endeavour seeks to highlight the difficulties faced by the Sri Lankan government in the post-conflict scenario.