Sinhalese students attack Tamils at Jaffna University 16 July 2016 Sinhalese students at Jaffna University attacked Tamil students at the campus earlier today, as clashes erupted at a orientation programme leaving dozens injured.   A university lecture hall, furniture and windows were smashed in the violence, as students fled in the chaos. The clashes erupted as Sinhala students brought in Kandyan dancers to a 'welcome party' at the university, held for first year students at the campus. Discussions had taken place last week over the dances that were to take place.  On Saturday morning however, tensions grew as Sinhalese students clashed with traditional Tamil musicians playing at the ceremony, as they attempted to take over proceedings.    “Suddenly a group of four Sinhala students started to run towards the Tamil students," said a science faculty student speaking on condition on anonymity due to safety concerns. "They started shouting... "This is a Sinhala state we will do whatever want!"" "They were holding sticks, iron rods broken pieces of furniture,” he added, as they proceeded to attack the Tamil students. At least 10 students have been admitted to hospital in the clashes, as Sri Lankan police descended onto the scene. Troops from the Special Task Force closed off the area, with military intelligence operatives also reportedly deployed in the area. Sinhalese students were swiftly escorted by Sri Lankan police back to their homes or to Jaffna Hospital to receive treatment. Tamil students meanwhile have been more cautious to seek treatment. "If a Tamil student was to go to the hospital with injuries, staff will know it was because they were attacked," one eyewitness told the Tamil Guardian. "Then it's only a matter of time before police harassment begins." Meanwhile officials at Jaffna University declared the campus would be shut down for at least two weeks due to damages sustained and in a bid to help ease tensions on campus.

Universities across the island have seen a rise in tension this year, with several assaults on Tamils by Sinhalese students.

See our earlier posts:Sinhala students assault security guard at Jaffna University hostel (08 Apr 2016)

Several Tamil students admitted into hospital following assault (31 Mar 2016)Sinhala mob attacks Tamil students (31 Mar 2016)Sinhalese students attack Tamils at Eastern Uni (13 March 2016)

The latest attack comes after a Tamil father of two was killed by a Sinhalese mob this month.

See our earlier posts:Tamil killed in Sinhala mob attack (08 Jul 2016)Sirisena postpones Batticaloa event near site of Sinhala mob attack (10 Jul 2016)