New Delhi, Feb. 16 -- Amid the buzz surrounding the presidential race this year, the visit of the JVP-led National People's Power (NPP) alliance of 28 left-leaning parties and organizations to India has raised much attention. As Sri Lanka plunged into an unprecedented economic crisis, its political stability deteriorated. People's hopes in terms of mainstream political parties have plummeted. Against this backdrop, expectations have turned towards alternative forces that are not yet in power.

In a survey conducted by the Institute for Health Policy, Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) leader Anura Kumara Dissanayaka was seen as a preferred candidate by 51 percent of people; opposition leader Sajith Premadasa got only 33 percent support; and ...