Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam

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Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam
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Formation	5 May 1976
Type	N/A
Headquarters	Kilinochchi, Sri Lanka
Membership	N/A
Language	N/A
Leader title	N/A
Leader name	N/A
Website	N/A

The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), also known as the Tamil Tigers, was a militant organization that sought to create an independent Tamil state called Tamil Eelam in the north and east of Sri Lanka. Founded in 1976 by Velupillai Prabhakaran, the LTTE waged a violent secessionist campaign that led to the Sri Lankan Civil War, which lasted from 1983 until 2009.

History

The LTTE was founded on 5 May 1976 by Velupillai Prabhakaran in response to the perceived discrimination against the Tamil minority by the Sinhalese-dominated Sri Lankan government. The organization initially engaged in guerrilla warfare and later developed into a conventional military force.

Early Years

In the late 1970s and early 1980s, the LTTE carried out a series of attacks against Sri Lankan government forces and Tamil political rivals. The group gained notoriety for its use of suicide bombings and assassinations, including the assassination of former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi in 1991.

Sri Lankan Civil War

The Sri Lankan Civil War officially began in 1983 following the Black July riots, which were triggered by the killing of 13 Sri Lankan soldiers by the LTTE. The conflict saw numerous battles, ceasefires, and failed peace talks over the next 26 years.

Decline and Defeat

The LTTE's fortunes began to decline in the early 2000s due to a combination of military setbacks, loss of international support, and internal divisions. The Sri Lankan government launched a major military offensive in 2006, which culminated in the defeat of the LTTE in May 2009. Velupillai Prabhakaran was killed, and the Sri Lankan government declared victory, effectively ending the civil war.

Organization and Structure

The LTTE was known for its highly organized structure, which included a military wing, a political wing, and various auxiliary units. The military wing was divided into several specialized units, including the Sea Tigers, Air Tigers, and the Black Tigers, the latter being responsible for suicide attacks.

Ideology

The LTTE's ideology was rooted in Tamil nationalism and the desire for an independent Tamil state. The group claimed to represent the Tamil people and sought to establish Tamil Eelam as a homeland for Tamils in Sri Lanka.

Controversies and Criticisms

The LTTE was designated as a terrorist organization by numerous countries, including India, the United States, and the European Union, due to its tactics, which included suicide bombings, assassinations, and the recruitment of child soldiers. The group was also criticized for its treatment of Tamil civilians and rival Tamil groups.

Legacy

The legacy of the LTTE and the Sri Lankan Civil War remains a contentious issue in Sri Lanka. The war resulted in significant loss of life and displacement, and the post-war period has been marked by ongoing ethnic tensions and debates over reconciliation and accountability.

Also see

• Sri Lankan Civil War
• Velupillai Prabhakaran
• Tamil Eelam
• Black July
• Rajiv Gandhi assassination