VOPP Conducts Galle District Pressure Group Meeting to Discuss Progress and Future Plans

The Voice of the Plantation People Organization (VOPP) convened its Galle District Pressure Group (District Committee) meeting on July 21, 2024, in Galle. The meeting brought together key stakeholders to review past actions, assess the current situation, and chart the course for future initiatives aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions of the Malaiyaha Tamil community in the district.

Reflecting on Past Actions

The meeting began with a review of the progress made since the last session. Members discussed previous actions undertaken by the district committee, focusing on advocacy efforts, grassroots mobilization, and

community-based interventions aimed at addressing pressing issues such as labor rights, access to education, and food security within the Malaiyaha Tamil community.

The discussions highlighted both successes and challenges faced in implementing the planned activities. Notable achievements include the increased visibility of the community’s demands at the district level and

strengthened relationships with local civil society organizations. However, the committee acknowledged that ongoing challenges, such as inadequate legal protection for plantation workers and limited access to essential services, continue to hinder progress.

Assessing the Current Situation

As the committee assessed the current state of affairs, Mrs.Lavina Hasanthi, Program Director of VOPP, provided a comprehensive overview of the existing socio-economic landscape in the Galle District. Her insights shed light on the persistent vulnerabilities faced by plantation workers, particularly in relation to wage stagnation, food insecurity, and access to government services.

Mr. A. Jesman, District Coordinator for Galle, emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant and proactive in advocating for the rights of the Malaiyaha Tamil community. He noted that while there have been improvements, the community’s socio-economic position remains fragile, especially given the ongoing challenges in securing land tenure and the need for greater political representation.

Planning for the Future: Strategic Focus Areas

Looking ahead, the committee engaged in a forward-looking discussion on future priorities and strategic actions. Key focus areas for the upcoming months include:

• Strengthening Advocacy for Legal Protections: The committee plans to intensify its efforts to secure stronger legal protections for plantation workers, particularly in areas related to labor rights and access to land.

• Promoting Economic Empowerment: To address wage stagnation and economic vulnerability, the committee will explore initiatives aimed at improving income-generating opportunities for the Malaiyaha community. This includes advocating for fair wages, better working conditions, and capacity-building programs.


• Enhancing Access to Social Services: The committee underscored the importance of ensuring equal access to essential services such as education, healthcare, and housing for the plantation community. Collaboration with government agencies and local NGOs will be key to achieving these goals.

Leadership and Guidance

The meeting was guided by the experienced leadership of Mrs. Lavina Hasanthi and Mr. A. Jesman, whose deep understanding of the issues facing the Malaiyaha community played a pivotal role in steering the

discussions. Their guidance ensured that the committee remains aligned with the broader mission of VOPP, which is to advocate for the rights and well-being of the plantation people in Sri Lanka.

Conclusion

The Galle District Pressure Group meeting reinforced VOPP’s commitment to standing alongside the Malaiyaha Tamil community in their fight for social justice, economic empowerment, and recognition. The collaborative discussions and strategic planning that took place will serve as a strong foundation for future actions, aimed at ensuring that the voices of the plantation people are heard and their rights protected.

Through continued dialogue and collective action, VOPP and its district committees remain dedicated to driving meaningful change for the Malaiyaha Tamil community.

Plantation wages: Political reps' 'unilateral' advocacy under fire - Executive Director - VOPP

 

Challenges Faced by the Southern Malaiyaha Community: The Struggle for Land Deeds

From 1993 to 2018, 80 percent of the Southern Malaiyaha Community members who received land parcels—totaling seven purchased plots—were not provided with official documentation. This ongoing issue has prompted the Voice of the Plantation People Organization (VOPP) to create a compelling documentary highlighting the plight of these individuals. Watch the video to learn more about their struggle and lend your support to their cause.