As many as 15 fishermen from Tamil Nadu have been arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy, which confiscated their boats too. Chief Minister M. K. Stalin conveyed this to the Centre on Monday and requested steps for the immediate release of fishers and boats.
Stalin, writing to Union Minister for External Affairs S Jaishankar, said the apprehension of 15 fishermen and the confiscation of their fishing boats by Sri Lanka have caused distress and fear among the fishing community in the state.
The fishermen, who ventured out for fishing in two boats, were arrested on July 9, 2023, by the Lankan Navy. Thousands of fishermen’s livelihoods depend on fishing activities in the waters near the Indo-Sri Lankan maritime boundary. They solely rely on fishing to sustain their families and communities.
“Unfortunately, incidents of apprehension by the Sri Lankan Navy have become distressingly frequent, plunging the fishermen and their families into deep anguish and uncertainty.” The Chief Minister requested the Minister’s intervention to get the apprehended fishermen immediately released and secure the return of all the fishing boats that have been seized.
“Through diplomatic channels, we can reach an amicable resolution that respects the rights and livelihoods of our fishermen while maintaining friendly bilateral relations between India and Sri Lanka. I eagerly await a positive response from your office.”