Explanation: The concept of alienation is central to understanding the social and political dynamics in Sri Lanka, particularly in the context of the relationship between the majority Sinhalese and the minority Tamil populations. Alienation refers to the feeling of being excluded, isolated, or separated from a group or society. In the case of the Sri Lankan Tamils, a series of government measures over time contributed to a growing sense of alienation.
These measures included policies such as the Sinhala Only Act of 1956, which made Sinhala the only official language of the country, and the standardization of university admissions in 1970, which favored Sinhalese students. Such policies were perceived by the Tamil community as discriminatory and aimed at marginalizing them within their own country. The cumulative effect of these measures was to create a sense of being outsiders, leading to a gradual increase in the feeling of alienation among the Sri Lankan Tamils.
It is important to understand that alienation is a psychological state, not an action. While protests and other forms of resistance are possible reactions to feelings of alienation, the question specifically asks about the gradual increase in a feeling. This makes alienation the most appropriate answer, as it captures the emotional and psychological impact of the government measures on the Tamil community.
The concept of alienation is closely related to other social and political concepts such as discrimination, marginalization, and ethnic tensions. Understanding these concepts is crucial for comprehending the complex dynamics of ethnic relations in Sri Lanka and similar contexts around the world. The feeling of alienation can lead to further social and political unrest, as individuals and groups who feel excluded may seek to assert their rights and identities through various means, including political activism and, in extreme cases, violence.
In summary, the gradual increase in the feeling of alienation among the Sri Lankan Tamils was a direct result of government measures that were perceived as discriminatory and aimed at marginalizing the Tamil community. This feeling of alienation is a critical factor in understanding the broader context of ethnic tensions and conflicts in Sri Lanka.