Former journalist Dilka Samanmali, known for her outspoken views, has stirred controversy on social media by critiquing Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s gesture towards Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake during the latter’s visit to India. In a widely circulated photo, Modi is seen placing his hand on President Dissanayake’s shoulder, a gesture Samanmali described as “frightening rather than joyous.”
Samanmali, now residing in Australia after leaving Derana TV, shared her thoughts in a detailed post on her social media account. Drawing from her background in studying political body language at an international institution in 2009, she suggested that such gestures in diplomatic settings often carry symbolic undertones of power dynamics.
“Look closely at this photo. Modi touching our President’s shoulder may seem like a friendly gesture to some, but it signals something more concerning to me,” Samanmali wrote. “It reflects a form of dominance, almost as if he’s saying, ‘That’s my boy.’ This is bad body language in the context of international politics.”
Samanmali went on to express apprehension about India’s possible intentions, suggesting that the gesture might represent an attempt to subtly assert control over Sri Lanka.
“If India continues with such gestures to align Sri Lanka as a submissive ally, we must remain cautious,” she stated. “This is not a moment for joy but a warning to be vigilant.”
She also warned against being complacent about India’s influence on Sri Lanka’s sovereignty.
“If President Anura doesn’t succumb to their strings, that alone would be a significant achievement,” she added.
In her post, Samanmali criticized societal attitudes that discourage critical political discourse, especially on sensitive topics involving Sri Lanka’s relationship with India.
“We do not need permission to analyze and discuss what we observe in politics. Political gestures like these have deeper implications, and it’s our duty as citizens to question them,” she argued.
Addressing younger audiences on social media, she encouraged them to voice their opinions without fear of backlash or criticism.
The post has ignited widespread debate on social media, with some supporting Samanmali’s interpretation of Modi’s gesture as a sign of dominance and others dismissing it as an overreaction to diplomatic courtesy.
Critics of Samanmali’s analysis argue that the gesture was merely a display of camaraderie between two leaders and should not be overanalyzed. Supporters, however, highlight India’s historical influence in Sri Lanka, including its involvement in economic and political affairs, as grounds for cautious skepticism.
Observers point out that gestures and body language in international politics often reveal unspoken power dynamics. India, being a regional power, has historically played a significant role in Sri Lanka’s affairs, including mediation during the civil war and economic support during crises.
Samanmali’s remarks have brought renewed attention to Sri Lanka’s delicate balancing act in managing relations with its influential neighbor. Her comments also underscore the growing public discourse on maintaining national sovereignty in a globalized world.
The viral nature of the post has sparked further discussions on how Sri Lanka navigates its foreign policy while asserting its independence. Whether Modi’s gesture was a calculated display of dominance or a simple act of diplomacy remains open to interpretation. However, Samanmali’s critique has undoubtedly highlighted the importance of reading between the lines in international relations.
