The Historical and Political Context of Tamil Self-Determination in Sri Lanka Preamble The Northern and Eastern provinces of Sri Lanka have long been recognized as regions with a significant Tamil population. Historically, these areas have been predominantly inhabited by Tamils, and their cultural, linguistic, and historical identities have been shaped over centuries. This essay argues that the question of merging or demerging these provinces should be secondary to granting the Tamil people the right to self-determination and land rights. By examining the historical context, the political decisions surrounding the merger and demerger, and the implications of these actions, we can gain a deeper understanding of the core issues at stake. Historical Context Before Sri Lanka gained independence in 1948, the Northern and Eastern provinces were distinct regions under British colonial rule. The island, then known as Ceylon, was divided into administrative districts rather than provinces. The ...