Explain India’s involvement in the Sri Lankan ethnic conflict.

India's involvement in the Sri Lankan ethnic conflict has been multifaceted and complex, reflecting historical, political, and strategic considerations. India's involvement primarily stemmed from concerns over the rights and welfare of the Tamil minority in Sri Lanka, as well as geopolitical dynamics in the region.

During the early stages of the conflict, India maintained a relatively neutral stance, advocating for a peaceful resolution and supporting efforts to address Tamil grievances through political means. However, as the conflict escalated in the 1980s, with the emergence of militant Tamil separatist groups such as the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), India became increasingly involved.

In 1987, India brokered the Indo-Sri Lanka Accord, which aimed to address Tamil grievances and provide autonomy to Tamil-majority regions in Sri Lanka through the implementation of the 13th Amendment to the Sri Lankan Constitution. As part of the accord, India deployed the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) to Sri Lanka to oversee the disarmament of Tamil militant groups and facilitate the peace process.

However, the intervention of the IPKF proved controversial and ultimately unsuccessful, leading to clashes between Indian forces and the LTTE, as well as opposition from Sinhalese nationalist groups in Sri Lanka. The IPKF's presence further exacerbated tensions and fueled anti-Indian sentiment among various factions in Sri Lanka.

Following the withdrawal of the IPKF in 1990, India continued to engage diplomatically with Sri Lanka and support efforts to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict. India also provided humanitarian assistance to Tamil refugees and displaced persons affected by the conflict.

In subsequent years, India maintained a nuanced approach to the Sri Lankan ethnic conflict, balancing its support for Sri Lanka's territorial integrity and sovereignty with its commitment to addressing Tamil grievances and promoting reconciliation. India supported international efforts to investigate allegations of human rights violations and war crimes committed during the conflict, while also advocating for a political solution that respects the rights and aspirations of all communities in Sri Lanka.

Overall, India's involvement in the Sri Lankan ethnic conflict reflects its strategic interests in the region, as well as its commitment to upholding principles of peace, stability, and human rights. While India's efforts to mediate the conflict faced challenges and limitations, its engagement underscores the importance of regional cooperation and dialogue in addressing complex and protracted conflicts.