India (Commonwealth Union)_ In a move seemingly aimed at garnering support from Tamil voters ahead of the 2024 LS elections, BJP national president JP Nadda unveiled a commemorative stamp, marking 200 years of Indian-origin Tamils residing in Sri Lanka. Speaking at a function held at the BJP central office, Nadda acknowledged the historical significance, emphasizing the challenges faced by individuals from the Madras Presidency who were transported to former Ceylon by the British.
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Nadda highlighted their enduring struggle for dignity and recognition. He said, “This is truly a historic occasion when we remember the extreme hardships endured by the people belonging to the Madras Presidency who were taken to erstwhile Ceylon by the British and their long struggle to gain dignity and recognition.” Reiterating the commitment of the Modi government, Nadda emphasized the BJP’s dedication to the welfare and prosperity of Indian-origin Tamils in Sri Lanka. He mentioned ongoing efforts to provide essential amenities, including housing and healthcare, ensuring an improved quality of life for the community.
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Furthermore, Nadda recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visits to Jaffna in Sri Lanka, where promises of sturdy housing for Indian-origin Tamils were made and fulfilled, significantly enhancing their living conditions. Quoting historical references, Nadda explained the British role in relocating Tamils to Sri Lanka for economic activities and their subsequent involvement in various fields. He assured that the BJP-led government, under PM Modi’s leadership, is genuinely concerned about the well-being of Indian Tamils in Sri Lanka, recognizing their significant contributions to the island’s infrastructural development.
Senthil Thondaman, the governor of the Eastern Province in Sri Lanka, attended the function as a special guest and praised PM Modi’s support during an economic crisis, emphasizing the care taken for Indian-origin Tamils. Further, Nadda expressed gratitude for PM Modi’s role in rebuilding Sri Lanka and acknowledged Indian-origin Tamils as the third-largest ethnic group in the country. He stated, “I thank PM Modi for his support in rebuilding Sri Lanka during an economic crisis and taking care of Indian-origin Tamils. The Indian-origin Tamils in Sri Lanka are the third-largest ethnic group”.
The commemorative stamp release aimed to honor the contributions of Indian-origin Tamils in Sri Lanka, particularly in the promotion of the plantation industry. Predominantly residing in the Northern and Eastern provinces, these people mainly speak Tamil as their native language. The stamp serves as a symbolic gesture recognizing the enduring presence and contributions of this community on the island of Sri Lanka over the past 200 years.
