The Cabinet of Ministers has approved a policy enabling Sri Lankans who fled to India during the civil war without valid documents to return home voluntarily, subject to security clearance and identity verification.
The Sri Lankan government has adopted a framework to facilitate the homecoming of nationals who sought refuge in India following the country's armed conflict, provided they meet specified security and legal requirements. The initiative applies to individuals whose identities have been confirmed through diplomatic channels and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, and who wish to return of their own accord.
Under the approved arrangement, returning refugees will be categorised based on their departure dates. Those who left before August 1, 2006, and individuals who departed illegally between that date and May 19, 2009—when the war concluded—will undergo identity verification through Sri Lankan diplomatic missions in India and obtain clearance from the State Intelligence Service. Once these conditions are satisfied, eligible returnees will receive temporary travel documents and be permitted entry through authorised ports without prosecution under Sri Lanka's immigration legislation.
The government characterises the policy as balancing humanitarian concerns with national security imperatives. However, individuals found to have committed serious offences such as murder or treason will face detention upon arrival and be transferred to appropriate legal authorities for prosecution. The framework was developed following consultation with the Attorney General and was presented to Cabinet by the Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs.
