The third reading of Sri Lanka's 2025 budget was passed last Friday in the country's parliament with a majority of 114 votes.
While the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Land, and Irrigation saw the largest budget increase compared to 2024, the overall sectoral allocations revealed a troubling trend as social welfare funding faces severe cuts for the second consecutive year. Meanwhile, another striking feature is the rise in defence spending. Although there has not been an armed conflict on the island in the last 15 years and repeated claims by successive Sri Lankan governments or national unity, such a hefty military budget appears unjustifiable — particularly when essential sectors like social welfare and health are facing cuts.
Speaking earlier, the Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake unveiled plans to improve the education sector, citing the redevelopment of Jaffna Library and other regional libraries, acknowledging that the infrastructure has not been adequately developed for the benefit of these readers. Yet, this gesture - without acknowledgement or apology - sidesteps the painful history of the library’s torching in 1981 by Sinhalese rioters.
Similarly, the budget includes plans to reconstruct the Vadduvaakkal Bridge in Mullaitivu, described as “dilapidated and risky for commuters.” However, the bridge remains a haunting reminder of the estimated 360 Tamils who surrendered to the Sri Lankan army during the final days of the armed conflict — they were never seen again. Dissanayake’s failure to mention the victims or offer any form of accountability reflects a pattern: infrastructure is prioritised, while justice for Tamils is ignored.
With a budget that prioritises defence over social welfare, healthcare, and education risks deepening inequality on the island.