Islamabad, This year marks the 24th anniversary of the Indian Army’s withdrawal following its defeat in Sri Lanka, highlighting India’s controversial involvement in the Sri Lankan Civil War and its support for Tamil Tiger rebels. The conflict, which spanned from 1983 to 2009, saw India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) providing extensive support to the Tamil Tigers, including training and arms, underlining accusations of India sponsoring terrorism in neighboring countries.

According to Kashmir Media Service, India’s engagement in Sri Lanka escalated in June 1987 with ‘Operation Azadi’, aimed against the Tamil Tigers. Despite Sri Lanka’s objections, India’s navy and air force continued to supply the rebels with arms and aid. In a significant move, the Jabra agreement facilitated the landing of 80,000 Indian troops in Jaffna in July 1987, ostensibly to broker peace.

However, the presence of Indian forces soon led to widespread violence and human rights violations, including looting, massacres, and mass atrocities, prompting a conflict with the LTTE in which the Indian Army suffered a significant defeat. The ensuing Operation Poon resulted in the deaths of 27,000 Sri Lankan citizens, 5,000 Sri Lankan soldiers, and over 3,000 Indian soldiers, showcasing the devastating impact of India’s military intervention.

The report further notes the long-term repercussions of India’s actions in Sri Lanka, including serious human rights violations and war crimes committed by Indian troops. The suicide of Kalvin Rajaratnam, who assassinated Rajiv Gandhi in 1991, is linked to abuses by Indian soldiers, underscoring the complex dynamics of India’s involvement in Sri Lankan affairs.

India’s dual policy of supporting both Sri Lanka and the Tamil rebels for its strategic interests is criticized for exacerbating the civil war, prolonging the conflict for two additional decades. This reflection on the anniversary of the Indian Army’s withdrawal serves as a sobering reminder of the complexities and consequences of foreign military interventions in internal conflicts.