August 24, Colombo (LNW): Indian Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has raised serious concerns over the arrest and detention of former Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe, cautioning against what he described as “the politics of vengeance” taking root in the island nation.
In a statement shared on social media, Tharoor questioned the basis of the charges, suggesting that, on initial examination, they appeared to be of a minor nature. He further revealed that Wickremesinghe’s health had worsened during his time in custody, prompting his transfer from the prison hospital to the National Hospital in Colombo.
Tharoor, who met with the former president earlier this month during a visit to Sri Lanka, urged authorities to ensure that Wickremesinghe is treated with the dignity befitting his long-standing contribution to public service. He called for adherence to due legal process and expressed hope that the situation would be handled with fairness and humanity.
Whilst acknowledging that the matter remains an internal issue for Sri Lanka, Tharoor emphasised that the way it is managed will not go unnoticed beyond the country’s borders. His remarks suggest growing international interest in the political and legal developments unfolding in Colombo, particularly as concerns mount over the potential misuse of state mechanisms for political retribution.
Concerned about the detention of former Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickramasinghe on what, on the face of it, seem trivial charges. His health issues have already seen him taken to the prison hospital. I call on the government of Sri Lanka — while fully respecting that this is… pic.twitter.com/ojuEfEu4FG
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) August 23, 2025
