The demands of the Sri Lankan Tamils are : (i) recognition of Tamil as an official language (ii) regional autonomy (iii) equality of opportunity in securing education and jobs In order to struggle for their demands, they launched parties and struggles. By 1980s, several political organisations were formed, demanding an independent Tamil Eelam (state) in northern and eastern parts of Sri Lanka. This struggle turned into a widespread conflict, leading to a civil war.