Nexus between land and ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka- real or imaginary: an analysis of land, agricultural and irrigation policies in Sri Lanka

The ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka has many root causes and consequences that are closely interlinked. Given its complexities, it should not be assumed that these causes are part of historical processes where one event led to another. Often many of the issues that may be regarded as root causes arose within a single but extended context and equally as often, simultaneously. This study investigates between ethnic grievances and land, irrigation and agricultural policies in the country using historical data and evidences. It is found that there is no enough evidence to support the argument that land, agriculture and irrigation policies have some impacts on emerging conflicts situation in north and east provinces in Sri Lanka. Though some people argue that land conflict is often linked with the ethnic conflict, a large number of land conflicts in the North and East are found to be common issues for all communities and could be resolved with an appropriate national plan that is prepared by considering the demand of all communities.