“It is not, of course, being suggested that the whole country should be transformed into a vast debating society or that everyone can at once participate in equal measure in dialogue! But teachers must be prepared to be learners too and learners to be teachers as well. Without development of the spirit of dialogue there will be no development of true motivation or understanding and so no participation of the people in the planning of the government. Economic and technical know-how cannot bear fruit without the development of proper human relationships through dialogue. The various revolutionary forces in this country must recognize each others’ worth and unite in the common struggle for liberation. The struggle for liberation must increasingly unite people of all groups. It must obtain for the people their due place in society. Leaders must arise from among the people who appreciate the potentialities of the people and draw them out. Recognising the deepest needs and yearning of the people for liberation and brotherhood they must inspire them with a vision of a new society. Agricultural and industrial techniques have to be learnt as well as cooperative and collective methods of production evolved. The development of individual personality, initiative and personal freedom has to be fostered together with recognition of common responsibilities. Technology and human relations intimately connected and both have to be rooted in reality, in the soil of the country, and integrated with indigenous culture. It is only as the people are inspired with a vision of a new society and begin to work together in a spirit of brotherhood, with confidence that it is in their power to shape the future that the spirit will be generated for the hard work and sacrifice that can creatively transform society.”

An excerpt from Violent Lanka: The Day of Slaughter, by Yohan Devananda. Published by Devasaranaramaya, Ibbagamuva, N.W.P., Sri Lanka, 1972