The Sri Lankan Tamils launched parties and struggled primarily to recognize Tamil as an official language. This was a significant demand as the Sri Lankan government had recognized Sinhalese as the only official language, disregarding the Tamil-speaking minority.

Historical Background:

1. Language Policy: In 1956, the Sri Lankan government introduced the Sinhala Only Act, which made Sinhalese the only official language of the country. This marginalization of the Tamil language and community created a sense of discrimination and discontent among the Sri Lankan Tamils.

2. Discrimination and Disenfranchisement: The Tamils faced discrimination in various sectors, including education, employment, and government services. They were also subjected to policies that marginalized their political representation and voting rights.

Launch of Parties and Struggle:

1. Formation of Tamil Political Parties: In response to the discriminatory policies, the Sri Lankan Tamils launched political parties to advocate for their rights and interests. The All Ceylon Tamil Congress (ACTC) and the Federal Party (FP) were the prominent parties that emerged during this period.

2. Demand for Language Equality: The Tamil parties demanded the recognition of Tamil as an official language, equal to Sinhalese. They argued that language rights were essential for preserving their cultural identity and ensuring equal opportunities for the Tamil-speaking minority.

3. Nonviolent Protests: The Tamil parties organized peaceful protests, demonstrations, and strikes to highlight their demand for language equality. These nonviolent means of protest aimed to draw attention to the issues faced by the Tamil community and push for policy changes.

4. Violent Conflict: Over time, the struggle for language rights escalated into a full-fledged ethnic conflict between the Sri Lankan government and the Tamil militants. This conflict, which lasted for several decades, resulted in significant loss of lives and widespread devastation.

Significance of Recognizing Tamil as an Official Language:

1. Cultural Identity: Recognizing Tamil as an official language would have ensured the preservation and promotion of Tamil culture, literature, and heritage.

2. Access to Government Services: Official recognition of Tamil would have facilitated better access to government services, including education, healthcare, and legal representation, for the Tamil-speaking population.

3. Political Representation: Recognizing Tamil as an official language would have helped in ensuring fair political representation for the Tamil community in the government and decision-making processes.

In conclusion, the Sri Lankan Tamils launched parties and struggled primarily to recognize Tamil as an official language. This demand arose due to the marginalization and discrimination faced by the Tamil-speaking minority in Sri Lanka. Recognizing Tamil as an official language would have provided the community with equal rights, opportunities, and a stronger sense of cultural identity.