India has reiterated its long standing demand for Sri Lanka to fully implement the 13th Amendment to its Constitution. Sri Lanka enacted the 13th Amendment in terms of the Indo-Lanka accord, under pressure from New Delhi, and signed it in 1987. The declaration was made at the commencement of the 60th session of Geneva HRC on Monday (08). Sri Lanka refrained from fully implementing land and police powers contained in the 13th Amendment.
The following is the text of the statement by Ms. Anupama Singh, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India, Geneva: “As a close friend of Sri Lanka and an immediate neighbour with deep-rooted ties to it, India has remained steadfast in its support of the relief, rehabilitation, resettlement, and reconstruction process in Sri Lanka since 2009.
India and Sri Lanka share deep historical, cultural and civilizational ties. Today, these bonds have evolved into a strong, multi-dimensional partnership. Sri Lanka holds a special place in India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and ‘Vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth across Regions).
India extended vital financial and technical support to ensure Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and long term stability after the unprecedented economic crisis in 2022. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Sri Lanka in April 2025 and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Disanayaka’s State Visit to India, in December 2024, are significant milestones in our bilateral relations.
India’s approach has always been to support the aspirations of the Tamil community for equality, justice, dignity and peace within the overall unity, territorial integrity and sovereignty of Sri Lanka. In this regard, India has consistently called for the full and effective implementation of the Sri Lankan Constitution, early conduct of Provincial Council elections, and meaningful devolution of powers.
India believes that meaningful devolution and genuine reconciliation, through an inclusive approach, would contribute to nation-building and a durable peace. Progress in these areas will not only benefit all communities in Sri Lanka but also reinforce the strong foundation of friendship and trust between our two nations.”