The leader of the Sinhala community dominated the government and adopted a series of majoritarian measures which resulted social tension.
* Sri Lanka became independent in 1948.
* In 1956 an Act was passed to recognise Sirhala as the only official language, disregarding Tamil.
* Sinhala applicants were favoured for university and government jobs.
* The constitution gives special protection to Buddhism.
* The leaders were insensitive to the language and culture of Tamils.
* Government policies deprieved them of equal political rights.