Batticaloa District MP Shanakiyan Rasamanickam has pressed the government to streamline procedures for Sri Lankan Tamil refugees in India seeking to return home, citing ongoing obstacles related to citizenship verification and resettlement.
Batticaloa District MP Shanakiyan Rasamanickam raised concerns in Parliament about the difficulties faced by Sri Lankan Tamil refugees attempting to return from India, pointing to multiple barriers including citizenship verification delays, security clearance procedures, travel documentation issues, and lack of support for housing and employment.
Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala responded by announcing that the government has obtained Cabinet approval for new procedures to facilitate returns. He explained that the Department of Immigration and Emigration has been instructed to implement these changes, addressing legal obstacles encountered by citizens who left the country during the war through unofficial channels.
Under the announced framework, refugees can approach Sri Lankan diplomatic or consular offices to establish their citizenship by submitting available identity and citizenship documents. Applications will then undergo security assessment through the State Intelligence Service before approval is granted.
While welcoming the government's initiative, Rasamanickam stressed the need for transparent guidelines outlining the return process, required documentation, security procedures, and post-arrival assistance. He further advocated for establishing a comprehensive mechanism to support returnees with land acquisition, housing, property rights, compensation claims, and employment opportunities, arguing that legal reforms must be paired with practical resettlement support for families.
