11 Muslims are found murdered in Pottuvil, Ampara with allegations made against the Special Task Force.
Timeline of events under "Muslim issues" issue
LTTE attacks Muttur. Fighting displaces thousands of Muslims.
Tension mounts in the Sri Lanka's Eastern Province following the killing of five Muslims, allegedly by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). Analysts observe that Muslim extremism appears to be gathering momentum in the eastern parts of the island. As the LTTE is being blamed for the killings, the peace process between the government and the LTTE comes under further strain.
The sixth round of peace talks between the government of Sri Lanka and the LTTE takes place at Hakone, Japan between 18-21 March 2003, amid growing security concerns. The parties agree to strengthen the mandate of the SLMM, discuss the commitment to developing a federal system and a roadmap on human rights.
Government officially announces its 'devolution package' to grant greater autonomy to the provinces through greater power-sharing with Tamil and Muslim minorities.
Expulsion of an estimated 70-100,000 Muslims from the Northern province by the LTTE. It is reported that Muslims were ordered to leave, giving them between 2 and 48 hours notice.
The LTTE attacks at least two mosques in Kaththankudi, Batticoloa. The attacks took place while the prayers were being conducted. The twin attacks left an estimated 116 people dead.
Clashes between Sinhalese and Muslim communities in Galle. Emergency declared and curfew imposed throughout Galle.
The Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) is established by M.H.N. Ashraff to represent the interests of predominantly rural, eastern Muslims.
The Federal Party begins a second phase of agitation, including members of the Muslim communities in the North and East.
A Muslim magistrate from Samanthurai, who came to settle a quarrel between two Tamils in a drunken brawl, is stabbed in the argument that ensued. In response, Muslim mobs from Samanthurai attack Tamils from Veeramunai, setting fire to Tamil houses in the area and causing Tamils to flee.
All Ceylon Tamil Congress leader, G.G. Ponnambalam, asks for ‘50:50’ representation (50% for the Sinhalese, and 50% for other minorities) before the Soulbury Commission.
Tamil leader, Sir Ponnambalam Ramanathan, publishes a paper arguing that Muslims are Tamils by nationality and Mohammedan by faith.
