In recent weeks, the Sri Lankan army has held several events across the Tamil homeland, particularly with Tamil schoolchildren, as it continues its process of normalising militarization of the North-East.
In Palinagar, Sri Lankan soldiers in camouflaged uniform distributed school books and stationery to Tamil schoolchildren.
In Mannar, more uniformed soldiers from the 54 Division handed out supplies to Tamil schoolchildren in Pesalai. The army claimed it was “a welfare activity to uplift their Education standard with good mentality and as an augmentation between civilians and Army”.
In Kilinochchi, toys were distributed by uniformed commanders from the Sri Lankan army’s 66 Infantry Division. “Toys are synonymous with childhood,” said the army. “They give children a reason to smile and to express themselves as well as to learn, while also bringing excitement to them.”
The continued Sri Lankan military presence across the Tamil homeland has come under criticism for years, with studies finding some regions have as much as 1 soldier for every two civilians.
Despite the criticism and the massive military budget that this entails, particularly in the midst of Sri Lanka’s economic crisis, the military continues to occupy the North-East and militarise civilian life in the region.
