Politicians seek votes from marginalized Sri Lankan plantation workers.

Sri Lanka’s plantation workers have long been marginalized and live in dire poverty, with promises of change often going unfulfilled. Despite being an important voting bloc, they continue to face challenges in their daily lives. Let’s take a closer look at their struggles and the promises made to improve their conditions.

The community, descended from Indian indentured laborers, has faced discrimination for decades and lives in crowded dwellings on plantations owned by powerful companies. They lack access to basic amenities like proper housing, healthcare, and education.

While the government has made some efforts to improve conditions, progress has been slow and promises have often gone unfulfilled. The upcoming presidential election presents an opportunity for change, with candidates making promises to address the plight of plantation workers.

Both incumbent President Ranil Wickremesinghe and opposition candidate Sajith Premadasa have pledged to improve the living conditions of plantation workers by providing them with land and better housing. However, these proposals are likely to face resistance from plantation companies.

Despite the promises and efforts from politicians, many like Manohari remain skeptical. She is more concerned about her son’s future after he had to drop out of school due to financial constraints. The struggle continues for Sri Lanka’s plantation workers, and real change remains to be seen.