Nation, identity and ethnicity: the concerns of srilankan repatriates in Kerala

The present paper attempts to comprehend the historical background and predicaments of Sri Lankan repatriates residing in Kerala. The Sri Lankan repatriates of Tamil ethnicity migrated from India to Ceylon during the colonial era. The Indo-Sri Lankan agreements in 1964, 1974 and 1986 repatriated a group off individuals to India. These repatriates were relocated to the plantations in Pathanamthitta, Kollam, Palakkad and Wayand districts of Kerala. This study aims to examine the conflicts pertaining to nationality, identity and the experiences of these individuals. Additionally it examines the involvement of the Indian government in bilateral agreements and initiatives related to repatriation.