The Centre for Policy Alternatives is deeply saddened by the death of Dr. Devanesan Nesiah and extends its deepest condolences to his family. Dr. Nesiah had a distingushed career as a public servant in the Ceylon Civil Servince with numerous stints in key administrative positions including as the Government Agent in Jaffna. He went on to serve in a number of state initiatives appointed to address human rights violations, the ethnic conflict and reconciliation, including heading the Committee on Disappearances in the Jaffna Region appointed by the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka in 2003.
Dr. Nesiah joined CPA as a Consultant in 2004 playing a key role during the last stages of the war in documenting human rights violations and the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the North and East of the country, raising critical questions on the need for a permanent solution to the war, for peace, reconciliation and justice. Dr. Nesiah was deeply committed to pluralism, the rule of law, and human rights; values which CPA has long advocated for and his vast experience enriched much of CPA’s research and advocacy during the war and immediate post war period.
His unflinching belief towards constitutional democracy was evident when he returned his Deshamanya award, marking his principled opposition to then President Maithripala Sirisena’s constitutional coup in 2018. Through this symbolic move, Dr. Nesiah showed the government and his fellow citizens of the importance of challenging injustices and authoritarian practices that erode our democracy.
We remember a man who was an optimist at heart and believed in a Sri Lanka that could aspire to be just and fair to all its citizens. His wry sense of humour, the twinkle in his eye and boundless energy constantly reminded us of the work that needs to be done and the many miles we need to walk. Rest in peace, Dr Nesiah.