Sri Lanka considers recalling Deputy High Commissioner in Chennai

Reports suggest that Sri Lanka may recall Dr Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, the Deputy High Commissioner in Chennai, following concerns regarding his diplomatic conduct. While the Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry has officially denied any such development, media reports indicate that government sources have lost confidence in his performance.

Allegations regarding his conduct include a failure to grasp the political sensitivity of the Chennai post and cultivating relationships that blurred the lines between diplomacy and private business interests. Sources cited by the Jaffna Monitor claimed his frequent appearances with celebrities and film stars in southern India were viewed as inappropriate for a diplomatic representative.

Dr Geathiswaran, who is not a career diplomat and is reportedly close to President Anura Dissanayake, was appointed to the role in August 2025. The Chennai post is considered strategically vital due to the deep economic, cultural, and linguistic ties between Sri Lanka and the Indian state of Tamil Nadu.