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The Third dimension

The Ethnic question cannot be treated as a question concerning Sinhala and Tamil people alone. There is also a Third dimension or a Muslim factor involved.

Originally the question arose as one between the Sinhala majority and the rest comprising all minorities. This was aptly characterized by the demand for "fifty-fifty" put forward by the late G.G. Ponnambalam Snr.

Contrary to widespread belief it was not fifty-fifty for the Sinhala and Tamil communities. It was a representation of 50 percent in the legislature for the Sinhala community and 50 percent for the other communities.

The Federal Party that was formed later made their demands on behalf of all Tamil speaking persons, meaning principally Tamils and Muslims.

The separation of the Tamil and Muslim aspirations came somewhat later. It was partly a result of the formation of the Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF) and partly a result of the emergence of a separate national identity for the Muslims.

With the emergence of Tamil militancy and its ascendancy to hegemony in the politics of the North East, Muslims were left to themselves.

It is a historical fact that the Muslims were driven from the North by the LTTE in 24 hours. The majority of this exodus still lives in refugee camps in Puttalam and elsewhere.

Therefore, it is natural that they yearn to go back to their homes in the North.

They associate the dawn of peace with a return to their native villages in the North.

While they hail the Ceasefire Agreement, Muslims, particularly those living in the East have expressed serious concern regarding certain developments that have arisen after the ceasefire.

Today, they perceive two threats. The first is the shattering of their dream to return to the North. The second is a threat that they may be expelled from the East too.

It is too early to confirm whether these threats are real or imaginary.

What is important is to acknowledge that certain developments have given rise to these perceptions.

The Ceasefire Agreement has failed to provide any clauses that dispel their fears, is an allegation that is raised. The parties to the Agreement could take note of these concerns and act to dispel the fears of the Muslim community.

Certainly, the Third dimension or the Muslim factor has to be included in the Agenda for substantial talks between the Government and the LTTE.

Ignoring it would lead to serious repercussions. Perhaps, a new fire may get ignited when the old one is doused. 

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