The 19th Constitutional Amendment, adopted by the Sri Lankan Parliament with a massive majority, will create an enabling environment to address the Tamil question and other issues faced by all minorities, including Muslims, a cross section of political leaders said.

Health and Indigenous Medicine Minister and Cabinet spokesperson Dr. Rajitha Senaratne said the office of President had “dictatorial powers” till now. He asserted that “all the benefits of the new Amendment will come to the minorities.”

Ramaiah Yogarajan, MP from the ruling United National Party (UNP), said that the representation of the minorities in public sector employment will certainly go up with the Public Service Commission being made independent.

Tamil National Alliance (TNA) MP Mavai Senathirajah emphasised that judiciary will function have freedom and that such a situation will be of immense benefit to Tamils.
(With inputs from The Hindu)