The High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha, accompanied by Dr. Rambabu C., Counsellor (Political) & Head of Chancery, met with representatives of Bahujana Balaya recently in a discussion that lasted more than three hours, underscoring the importance both sides placed on open and meaningful dialogue.
According to the Bahujana Balaya, far from being a ceremonial courtesy call, the meeting reflected India’s continued engagement with a broad spectrum of political and social stakeholders in Sri Lanka, including emerging nationalist movements. The talks provided an opportunity to exchange perspectives on issues of mutual importance.
Issuing a statement, the Bahujana Balaya said the conversation covered Sri Lanka–India relations and trade cooperation, regional security and the 13th Amendment, community relations between the North and South, and India’s system of governance, democratic institutions, and guiding principles of diplomacy.
The Bahujana Balaya stressed that the meeting was not used to criticize the Sri Lankan Government or President, but to focus on matters of national importance.
“In diplomacy, the nation must always come first,” the group noted, stressing that constructive dialogue builds trust and long‑term cooperation.
As a token of appreciation, Bahujana Balaya presented the High Commissioner with a replica of the Naga Raksha mask, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic cultural symbols. The mask embodies protection, wisdom, vigilance, and the triumph of truth over evil, with its cobra hood signifying divine knowledge and its striking eyes believed to ward off the “evil eye.”
The Bahujana Balaya delegation included Chairman Milinda Rajapaksha, General Secretary Iranga Mendis, National Organiser Piyal Dharshana Guruge, Media Secretary Anjana Udara, Deputy Chairwoman Kumudini Bandara, and Executive Committee Member Sonala Gunawardene.
The Bahujana Balaya expressed appreciation for the openness of Indian High Commissioner Santosh Jha and Dr. Rambabu C., noting that diplomacy is strengthened through mutual respect, understanding, and continuous dialogue.
The group said constructive engagement between India and Sri Lanka’s national stakeholders will remain vital for promoting peace, stability, and shared prosperity. (Newswire)