The LTTE ambush
In July 1983, an LTTE attack near Jaffna killed 13 Sri Lankan soldiers. The soldiers' bodies were brought to Colombo, where tensions rapidly escalated.
Black July
Anti-Tamil riots and pogroms followed in Colombo and other parts of the country. Tamil homes, businesses and places of worship were attacked, and many civilians were killed or displaced. The violence profoundly damaged relations between communities.
Expansion of the war
The events of 1983 accelerated militant recruitment and armed mobilisation. Thousands of people were displaced, and many young Tamils joined or supported militant organisations. The conflict became increasingly militarised.
Indian involvement
India became increasingly involved through political pressure, training and diplomatic initiatives. The Indo–Sri Lanka Accord was signed in 1987, leading to the deployment of the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF). The IPKF subsequently entered into direct fighting with the LTTE.
Historical note
This page is intended as a historical archive. Events involving the LTTE, government forces, civilians and other actors are presented separately where possible. Where casualty figures or historical interpretations are disputed, the page avoids presenting one estimate as unquestionable fact.