'India Can Play Central Role': Sri Lankan MP Calls For Cooperation Amid Nepal, Bangladesh Unrest

Last Updated:January 08, 2026, 14:19 IST

Namal Rajapaksa has called for regional cooperation in South Asia, stressing that India could play a central role in addressing political instability and security challenges.

A file photo of Namal Rajapaksa (AFP)

Sri Lankan Member of Parliament Namal Rajapaksa on Thursday reiterated the need for stronger regional cooperation in South Asia, saying India could assume a central role in addressing shared security and political challenges confronting the region.

His comments, made in a post on social media platform X, come against the backdrop of sustained political unrest in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Nepal in recent years.

“Amid a series of recent global security developments, there is a growing and urgent need for stronger regional cooperation in South Asia, in which India can play a central role," Rajapaksa mentioned.

He emphasised that Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka have each “experienced periods of political turmoil, marked by public unrest and changes in government," adding that such disruptions have at times been “supported and promoted by extremist elements."

Rajapaksa, a leading figure in the ruling Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), urged collective action to counter extremism, prevent political violence and protect minority rights across South Asia.

“South Asia requires greater regional coherence to withstand emerging crises and respond collectively to shared challenges," he added, underlining India’s role in fostering long-term peace and stability.

He stressed that “with aligned goals focused on growth and stability, South Asia as a whole can project greater influence internationally," and described improving cooperation as crucial to sustaining peace and long-term coherence.

Rajapaksa also highlighted the upcoming elections in Bangladesh and Nepal as opportunities to “reaffirm democratic legitimacy through free and fair elections that will contribute to further strengthening regional security."

The call for regional unity comes as South Asia continues to grapple with cycles of public unrest and political change.

In Sri Lanka, mass protests against economic hardship in 2022 culminated in the resignation and temporary exile of then-President Gotabaya Rajapaksa amid the country’s worst financial crisis in decades.

Bangladesh has faced sustained protests since late 2024, initially sparked by dissatisfaction over unemployment and allegations of corruption. Demonstrations escalated into violent confrontations and political instability across key urban centres.

Reports indicate that incidents of violence targeting minority communities have also surged in early 2026, raising concerns over law and order and minority protection.

In Nepal, nationwide protests erupted in 2025 following government restrictions on social media and broader discontent over corruption and governance.

The demonstrations expanded rapidly, resulting in the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and the setting of new elections for 2026.

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