Public and civil society organizations in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province have united to condemn the government’s development projects in the North-East, which they claim violate the rights and livelihoods of Tamils. In a joint statement released on October 3, 2025, the groups expressed deep concern over the projects, citing severe harm to the environment and local populations. They specifically highlighted the Mannar wind power and mineral sand extraction projects, which have disrupted ecological systems and jeopardized livelihoods.
Local residents have been peacefully protesting against these developments for months, but their efforts were met with violence last week when police dispersed a non-violent protest in Mannar. The protesters, including social activists and clergy members, were attempting to block the transport of equipment for the wind power project. The groups condemned this act as a direct violation of the people’s right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
The organizations accused the government of hypocrisy, noting that while it publicly claims to protect democracy, it continues to advance projects that destroy natural resources and intimidate dissenters. The government had pledged not to implement projects that go against the will of the people, but the groups claim that it has done exactly that. They called on the administration to immediately suspend all projects that threaten the livelihoods of communities and endanger the environment.
The groups warned that continued repression and disregard for local voices would further erode democracy in the North-East. They emphasized the need for the government to respect the rights and livelihoods of Tamils and to prioritize environmental protection. The situation has sparked concerns about the government’s commitment to democracy and its willingness to listen to the concerns of local communities. The organizations’ joint statement serves as a powerful condemnation of the government’s actions and a call to action to protect the rights and livelihoods of the people in the North-East.