Namal welcomes Stalin’s appeal over Indian citizenship issue, urges Tamil Nadu not to politicise it

Colombo, Feb. 16 (Daily Mirror) - While welcoming the appeal by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking Indian citizenship or long-term visas for 89,000 Sri Lankans residing in Southern India, Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa has called on the Indian government to ensure that the move is not influenced by the election period or turned into a political exercise.

In a statement posted on social media, Rajapaksa said the move offers hope to thousands of Sri Lankan Tamils who have lived in refugee camps in Tamil Nadu for decades, seeking stability, dignity and secure legal status.

However, he expressed hope that the request was motivated by genuine humanitarian concerns and not influenced by the upcoming state elections, noting that similar appeals had been made during politically sensitive periods in the past.

"Following the end of the 30-year conflict, during the tenure of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, our government consistently facilitated the safe and voluntary return of Sri Lankans residing in camps in Tamil Nadu. Despite challenging circumstances, significant efforts were made to enable them to rebuild their lives with dignity in their homeland.

It is now concerning to hear reports of roadblocks faced by those willing to return from camps in Tamil Nadu. We urge the Government of Sri Lanka to carefully review and positively address the concerns of those who wish to return, and to facilitate their reintegration without unnecessary obstacles. 

Sri Lankans have no reason to continue to toil in refugee camps in India. They can return to Sri Lanka and live here as rightful citizens.

These 89,000 Sri Lankans are our people, and we remain responsible for their well-being, safety, and dignity. We call upon the Governments of Sri Lanka and India, as well as the Tamil Nadu State Government, not to politicize this sensitive humanitarian issue. Let us work together toward a substantial and lasting solution that safeguards the rights and futures of all affected families," Namal Rajapaksa said.