The Indian High Commission in Colombo announced the successful return of 21 Indian fishermen. They had been detained by the Sri Lankan Navy. Sharing the update on X(formerly twitter), the High Commission stated, “A group of 21 Indian fishermen have been successfully repatriated from Sri Lanka. They are currently on their way back home!”
Arrested While Fishing in Palk Bay
On December 8, the Sri Lankan Navy apprehended eight fishermen from Tamil Nadu’s Ramanathapuram district. Additionally, two of their boats were confiscated.
The arrested fishermen included: Mangadu Bhatrappan (55), Reddayurani Kannan (52), Chinna Reddayurani Muthuraj (55), Agasthiyar Kutam Kali (50), Thangachimad Yasin (46), Jesus, Uchipulli Ramakrishnan, Velu
Subsequently, they were taken to the Kangesanturai Naval Camp.
Fishermen Crossed Alleged Maritime Borders
According to reports, the fishermen ventured out to sea on December 7 from Mandapam with 324 boats. Subsequently, they were fishing near Delft Island in the Palk Bay when the Sri Lankan Navy intervened.
Furthermore, the Mandapam Fishermen Association revealed that the Sri Lankan Navy accused the fishermen of crossing into Sri Lankan waters. Meanwhile, during the operation, the Navy also seized two of their boats.
Ongoing Concerns Over Arrests
This incident increases the number of arrests of Indian fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy. As a result, the issue has captured the attention of both the Tamil Nadu government and the central government.
Chief Minister MK Stalin consistently raises this concern with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. Addressing the matter, Stalin emphasized, “The detention of our fishermen and the confiscation of their boats cause serious distress and uncertainty among the coastal communities. I have repeatedly reiterated that concrete and proactive steps must be taken to resolve this festering issue diplomatically.”
Central Government Promises Action
In response to Stalin’s appeals, Jaishankar assured that the Indian government is taking proactive steps. Moreover, he emphasized that the Indian High Commission in Colombo and the Consulate in Jaffna are working diligently to secure the early release of the detained fishermen.
Moving Towards Long-Term Solutions
While the return of the fishermen is a relief, the issue remains unresolved. Moving forward, stronger diplomatic engagement and clear maritime agreements between India and Sri Lanka are essential to prevent such incidents.