The Sri Lankan Navy arrested 17 Tamil Nadu fishermen near Talaimannar for allegedly crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) while fishing. The incident, which has reignited concerns over maritime disputes, also saw the seizure of two fishing boats.
The Arrests and Seizure
The fishermen, who set sail from the Rameswaram fishing port, were reportedly operating in waters between Dhanushkodi and Talaimannar when Sri Lankan naval patrols detained them. They were taken to the Talaimannar Naval Camp for questioning. Following the inquiry, they will be handed over to the Mannar Fisheries Department for further legal proceedings.
A Recurring Issue
The arrest of Indian fishermen, particularly from districts like Ramanathapuram, Pudukkottai, Nagapattinam, and Thanjavur, has been a longstanding issue. Many fishermen venture into Sri Lankan waters in search of better fish catches, often crossing the IMBL inadvertently.
Tamil Nadu’s Appeal for Diplomacy
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin recently urged Union Minister of External Affairs Dr. S. Jaishankar to take immediate diplomatic steps to resolve this issue. The Chief Minister expressed grave concern over the frequency of arrests in 2024, which marks the highest number of such incidents in seven years.
Livelihood Under Threat
The Tamil Nadu government has consistently advocated for the rights and safety of its fishing community. Fishermen often navigate disputed waters, driven by the need to secure their livelihoods. The arrests not only affect the individuals involved but also highlight the broader issue of unclear maritime boundaries and disputed fishing rights.
Conclusion
This latest incident underscores the urgent need for bilateral talks between India and Sri Lanka to establish clear maritime protocols and protect the rights of fishermen from both nations.
