Cardinal condemns Indo-Lanka bridge plans

• Warns that Indo-Lanka land bridge project endangers SL’s sovereignty and independence
• Expresses concern that latest project could integrate Sri Lanka into Tamil Nadu
• Criticises Govt. for prioritising foreign requests over local interests

Archbishop of Colombo, Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith has voiced his strong criticism against the proposed Indo-Lanka land bridge project. Speaking to the media in Ruwanwella on Friday Cardinal Ranjith warned the project will endanger Sri Lanka’s sovereignty and independence. He cited historical instances of South Indian invasions where Sinhalese kings had to defend and reclaim parts of the island. 



He warned that such a project would lead to Sri Lanka becoming a part of Tamil Nadu.

This criticism follows President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s recent announcement of the completion of a pre-feasibility study for the land connection and plans for a full feasibility study soon. The President made this statement during a meeting with the Bishop of Mannar Rev. Dr. Fidelis Lionel Emmanuel Fernando, at the Mannar Bishop’s House on 16 June, according to the President’s Media Division.

“Who needs this bridge? It’s evident that the idea originated from foreign requests, not from the people here,” the Cardinal stated. “This Government is determined to follow all external directives without considering whether they are beneficial or harmful to us. We must be cautious and avoid actions that are not in our best interest. Otherwise, we will find ourselves in an even worse crisis than we already face. We must not do anything that jeopardises our sovereignty and independence.” Cardinal Ranjith said. 

The Indo-Sri Lanka bridge, initially proposed a few decades ago, resurfaced during discussions between President Wickremesinghe and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi last year.

Indian Government officials have highlighted the benefits of the land bridge, emphasising its potential to boost import-export activities between the two nations. They assert that the bridge would strengthen economic ties and streamline trade operations by reducing transportation costs compared to maritime shipping or air freight.