The LTTE Version of IPKF Operations in Sri Lanka: A Critical Analysis

The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) had a profoundly critical perspective on the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) operations in Sri Lanka. This article delves into the key points of the LTTE's narrative, examining their portrayal of the IPKF as an occupying force that exacerbated ethnic tensions, rather than a mediator in the peace process.

1. The Invasion and Occupation

The LTTE characterizes the 1987 deployment of the IPKF in Sri Lanka as an invasion, rather than a peacekeeping mission. They argue that the Indian government's intervention was driven by its own agenda, seeking to resolve the ethnic conflict on its terms. From the LTTE's perspective, the IPKF's actions were seen as an infringement on the sovereignty of Sri Lanka and a violation of the organization's struggle for an independent Tamil Eelam.

2. Support for the Sri Lankan Government

The LTTE claims that the IPKF acted as an ally of the Sri Lankan government and military, targeting the LTTE and its supporters. They believe that the IPKF's operations were aimed at dismantling their organization and undermining their struggle for independence. The LTTE contends that the IPKF's militaristic approach only served to escalate the conflict, rather than bring about a peaceful resolution.

3. Human Rights Violations

The LTTE has accused the IPKF of committing human rights abuses against Tamil civilians during their operations. They allege that the IPKF was responsible for extrajudicial killings, torture, and other forms of violence against the Tamil population. These allegations highlight the controversial nature of the IPKF's involvement in the conflict and raise questions about the conduct of peacekeeping forces in geopolitical situations.

4. Failed Peace Efforts

The LTTE contends that the IPKFs presence and actions exacerbated the conflict rather than facilitating peace. They argue that the IPKFs inability to engage constructively with the LTTE and their militaristic approach led to increased hostilities. The LTTE's narrative suggests that the IPKF's failure to establish a credible and inclusive peace process contributed to the ongoing violence and suffering of the Tamil people.

5. Withdrawal and Legacy

The LTTE often references the eventual withdrawal of the IPKF in 1990 as a sign of their resistance and determination. They view the IPKFs departure as a recognition of their strength and the untenability of the Indian forces position in the conflict. The LTTE's portrayal of the IPKF as an occupying force that failed to uphold its peacekeeping mandate and instead became embroiled in the ongoing ethnic conflict serves as a critical analysis of the IPKF's role.

6. Prabhakaran's Perspective on IPKF

LTTE Chief Velupillai Prabhakaran initially expected the IPKF to fight the Sinhalese Army. However, he was dismayed when the IPKF started establishing a civilian administered state of Tamil Eelam. Prabhakaran turned against Rajiv Gandhi and the IPKF, denigrating them as the "Peace Killing Force" and even calling them the "Satanic Force." His hatred for the IPKF culminated in his advocacy for a Tamil state within Sri Lanka's constitution, with his arch-rival, Perumal of the EPRLF, becoming the Chief Minister.

Conclusion

Prabhakaran's views highlight the complex geopolitical dynamics at play during the conflict. His struggle for dominance over Tamil leadership and his resistance to Indian intervention affected the LTTE's narrative of the IPKF. To gain a deeper understanding of these events, I recommend reading my book, "The Bleeding Island," published through Partridge Publications.

Keyword: LTTE, IPKF, Sri Lanka

Related Keywords: Tamil Tigers, Sri Lankan Civil War, Indian Intervention