The Socialists and the Nationalist Movement in Sri Lanka 1931-1948

Abstract

The introduction of the Universal Suffrage and the Executive Committee system and the abolition of communal representations on the recommendations of the Donoughmore Commission was considered a distinct advance on the existing constitution by a major section of the bourgeoisie, organized under the leadership of the Ceylon National Congress formed in 1919, which was at the beginning opposed to universal suffrage. These members showed their inclination to collaborate with the rulers by the acceptance of universal suffrage and by enthusiastic participation in the general elections in order to use the State Council as a platform to press for further changes. Though they aimed at self-government, the new constitution was a distinct advance on the former and empowered them to undertake a great deal of constructive work and to identify themselves closely with the people.