A prominent civil society network in Sri Lanka’s north says that President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s government is taking an “undemocratic decision” to move ahead with a controversial wind power project on Mannar Island, without properly consulting affected communities.
In a letter sent to the President, the Federation of Community Based Organisations in Mannar said the government’s approach “resembles a judicial verdict” and undermines the principles of democratic governance.
The letter, signed by Federation President V.S. Sivakaran, warns that the conduct of the police and relevant authorities — in disregarding the rights and livelihoods of local residents — amounts to a violation of fundamental rights.
Last month, following protests and engagement with government ministers, the wind power project had been temporarily suspended for a month.
During that period, officials met with civil society representatives and local communities, who raised serious concerns over the social and environmental impact of the project.
However, those concerns were ultimately ignored, the Federation claims.
Communities in Mannar have long opposed mineral sand extraction and large-scale wind energy projects in the area, citing threats to fishing livelihoods, cultural heritage, and fragile ecosystems.
Contrary to public expectations, the Federation says the government has now decided unilaterally to resume the projects.
“In a democracy, resolutions must emerge through dialogue—by addressing disagreements and arriving at a consensus,” the Federation wrote, warning that the state’s behaviour under the current administration shows little difference from that of previous governments.
The Federation further noted the ongoing activity of private companies involved in mineral excavation, despite the apparent suspension.
“No official notice has been issued, and operations continue as normal,” the letter said, calling it a violation of democratic norms and “the very essence of people’s sovereignty.”
The letter ends with a call for President Dissanayake to reconsider the decision and engage in genuine consultation with the people of Mannar before making any final decisions on the project.
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