Overview
Black July (Tamil: கறுப்பு ஜூலை) refers to the anti-Tamil pogrom that occurred in Sri Lanka from July 23-29, 1983. It was a turning point in Sri Lankan history, marking the beginning of the civil war that would last until 2009.
What Happened
The pogrom was triggered by an ambush by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) that killed 13 Sri Lankan Army soldiers on July 23, 1983. The bodies of the soldiers were brought to Colombo, where their public funeral became the catalyst for organized violence against Tamil civilians.
The Violence
- Voter lists used: Organized mobs were provided with electoral lists and addresses to identify Tamil homes and businesses
- Government complicity: Security forces and police often stood by or actively participated
- Nationwide scope: Violence spread from Colombo to other major cities
- Industrial destruction: Tamil-owned businesses, factories, and shops were systematically destroyed
Casualties
- Deaths: Estimated 3,000+ killed (government figures put it at 400)
- Displaced: Over 150,000 people fled their homes
- Property damage: Estimated $300 million in destroyed property
- Emigration: Tens of thousands of Tamils fled Sri Lanka permanently
Welikada Prison Massacre
During Black July, one of the most horrific incidents occurred at Welikada Prison, where:
- On July 25: 35 Tamil political prisoners were killed
- On July 27: Another 18 Tamil prisoners were murdered
- Prison guards allegedly provided Sinhalese prisoners access to Tamil inmates
International Response
The violence received international condemnation:
- India formally protested and later became involved in mediation
- Many countries issued travel advisories
- Human rights organizations documented widespread atrocities
Long-term Impact
Black July fundamentally changed Sri Lanka:
- It radicalized Tamil youth, swelling LTTE ranks
- It triggered a mass exodus of Tamils abroad
- It marked the effective beginning of the 26-year civil war
- It destroyed the possibility of peaceful coexistence in the short term
Remembrance
July is commemorated annually as Black July by Tamil communities worldwide. Memorials are held to honor the victims and ensure the events are never forgotten.
Sources and Further Reading
- “Only Man Is Vile: The Tragedy of Sri Lanka” by William McGowan
- Amnesty International Reports on Sri Lanka (1983-1984)
- “Sri Lanka: The Untold Story” - International Crisis Group
- Human Rights Watch documentation