Behind a growing social fissure 

Behind a growing social fissure

Context

Anti-Muslim violence in Sri Lanka

Issues

• Majority with a minority complex: Due to various historical and geographical reasons, Sinhala Buddhists are a majority with a minority complex, existentially fearful of losing majority status in Sri Lanka either to Tamil Hindus or to Muslims
• Muslims are seen as aliens: The majority often sees Muslims as a growing, united and economically persevering group, having an unshakeable faith in Islam, and asserting the Islamic identity. In contrast, the Sinhala-Buddhists are seen to be lacking unity — unlike Muslims, they are relaxed and liberal about religious practices/observances. These differences and fear often get translated into violence
• Complaints against Muslims:
  • Rise in radicalisation of Muslims in the Eastern province (Islamic State inspired) and the alleged promotion of anti-Buddhist propaganda by fundamentalist forces
  • There are allegations against Muslim politicians of being engaged in land acquisitions and the illegal resettlement of Muslims
  • There are concerns which are meant to promote fear and hatred. These range from the absurd accusations about Muslim promotion of birth control pills and concerns about the growth in the Muslim population, expansion of Muslim-owned businesses, and Sinhala families being driven away from villages by Muslims

What can be done?

• There is a list of different complaints, and of varying degrees of seriousness. While some of them need to be exposed for what they truly are (myths and untruths), and some defy any meaningful action (the expansion of businesses or the population), some others would need to be taken up for serious examination by the political leadership
• Emphasis on ensuring accountability through the prosecution of all persons, including Buddhist monks, who have caused and incited violence. Simultaneously, there should be a constant dialogue between Sinhala Buddhist groups, the Muslim religious/political leadership and the government