Sri Lanka elections: Politicians promise land to plantation workers

In Sri Lanka, the plantation workers, a historically marginalized group, are facing dire living conditions and poverty. With around 1.5 million descendants of Indian indentured laborers, many still reside in line houses owned by plantation companies, often sharing cramped spaces without basic amenities. The community has the highest rates of poverty and malnutrition in the country, and their living conditions have been exacerbated by years of civil conflict and neglect. During the recent presidential election, both leading candidates made promises to provide land to these workers, who represent about 3.5% of the electorate. Despite previous assurances from political parties, many of these commitments have gone unfulfilled, leading to skepticism among the plantation community. The current government has made some strides, such as raising the minimum wage for plantation workers and improving housing conditions, but significant challenges remain. A U.N. special rapporteur highlighted the severe living conditions during a visit in 2022, noting that many workers live in overcrowded and poorly equipped dwellings. The government’s land distribution programs have largely excluded plantation workers, leaving over 90% landless. As the election unfolds, the community remains cautious, with many like Manohari expressing doubt about the sincerity of political promises. The plantation workers' plight continues to be a pressing issue, reflecting broader socio-economic challenges in Sri Lanka.