Flashback to November 8

World History

1987

Tamil bomb attack in Colombo, Sri Lanka; 115 killed.

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On April 21, 1987, a devastating bomb attack took place in Colombo, Sri Lanka, resulting in the loss of 115 innocent lives. This tragic event, known as the Tamil bomb attack, has had a lasting impact on the country and its people. In this article, we will delve into the details of the attack and its aftermath, highlighting the significance of this incident in Sri Lankan history.

The Tamil bomb attack in Colombo was carried out by the separatist group known as the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). The LTTE was a militant organization fighting for an independent Tamil state in the northern and eastern regions of Sri Lanka. The attack targeted the capital city, Colombo, and aimed to create fear and chaos among the country’s population.

The bomb attack occurred during a period of intense political instability and ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka. The country had been grappling with the issue of Tamil separatism for several years, with tensions between the majority Sinhalese community and the Tamil minority reaching a boiling point. The LTTE, led by Velupillai Prabhakaran, resorted to violent means to achieve their goals, carrying out numerous attacks over the years.

On that fateful day, multiple bombs exploded in different parts of Colombo, including the Central Bus Stand and the Fort railway station. These locations were chosen strategically to maximize casualties and instill fear in the hearts of the people. The attack led to the deaths of 115 individuals, both Sri Lankans and foreign nationals, and left hundreds injured.

The aftermath of the Tamil bomb attack was marked by grief, anger, and a deep sense of loss. The Sri Lankan government, under President J.R. Jayewardene, declared a state of emergency and deployed the military across the country to maintain law and order. The attack further escalated the ethnic tension between the Sinhalese and Tamil communities, leading to widespread violence and retaliatory attacks.

In response to the attack, the Sri Lankan government launched a major military offensive against the LTTE, which further intensified the civil war in the country. This conflict, which lasted for over two decades, resulted in the deaths of thousands of people and caused immense suffering to both sides of the conflict.

The Tamil bomb attack in Colombo was a pivotal moment in Sri Lanka’s history. It highlighted the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the ethnic conflict and sparked international attention towards the situation in the country. The attack drew condemnation from around the world and led to increased efforts by the international community to find a lasting solution to the conflict.

In recent years, Sri Lanka has made significant strides towards reconciliation and healing the wounds of the past. The civil war officially ended in 2009 with the defeat of the LTTE, but the scars of the conflict still remain. The country continues its journey towards peace, justice, and a better future for all its citizens.

The Tamil bomb attack in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on April 21, 1987, serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of ethnic conflict and the profound impact it can have on a nation. It is crucial for societies to learn from such tragic events, striving for peace and understanding among diverse communities. Only through dialogue, tolerance, and inclusivity can a nation truly heal and move forward from such dark chapters in its history.

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