Synopsis
On February 23, the Sri Lankan Navy detained 32 fishermen from Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, for allegedly breaching the International Maritime Boundary Line. This incident follows multiple arrests of Tamil Nadu fishermen in recent weeks, leading to widespread protests and calls for government intervention to protect their rights and livelihoods.Key Takeaways
- 32 Tamil fishermen arrested by Sri Lankan Navy.
- Five mechanized boats confiscated.
- Ongoing issue of fishermen arrests from Tamil Nadu.
- Local communities demand government action.
- Calls for diplomatic intervention to resolve disputes.
Chennai, Feb 23 (NationPress) The Sri Lankan Navy has detained 32 fishermen from Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu for allegedly crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) and engaging in fishing activities within Sri Lankan waters.
The apprehensions occurred in the early hours of Sunday. Additionally, five expensive mechanized boats were confiscated by the Sri Lankan authorities.
The fishermen who were detained have been reported by local fishing leaders to have been transported to Jaffna in Sri Lanka for further interrogation.
This incident follows a previous arrest on February 19, where 10 fishermen from Rameswaram were also taken into custody for purportedly trespassing into Sri Lankan territorial waters, resulting in the seizure of three mechanized fishing boats.
The Tamil Nadu coastal police have confirmed that the fishermen were detained for allegedly breaching the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) while fishing in Sri Lankan territories.
In the wake of these arrests, the families of the detained fishermen, along with local fishing communities, are calling on both the Central and State governments to take prompt measures to ensure their release. Leaders of the fishermen’s associations have announced intentions for large-scale protests in Rameswaram and surrounding coastal regions in response to the ongoing arrests.
The issue of Tamil Nadu fishermen being detained by the Sri Lankan Navy has emerged as a persistent concern. Just ten days prior, on February 9, Sri Lankan authorities apprehended 14 fishermen from Tamil Nadu and seized their mechanized fishing boat. These fishermen, who had departed from Rameswaram, were also taken to Jaffna for questioning.
A similar situation arose on February 3, when 10 fishermen from Rameswaram were detained for allegedly crossing the IMBL.
In recent weeks, the Sri Lankan Navy has apprehended multiple fishermen from Tamil Nadu. On January 26, a total of 34 fishermen from Rameswaram and Thangachimadam were detained, with three fishing boats seized, along with an additional 13 fishermen from Rameswaram who were apprehended a week earlier, resulting in the confiscation of their mechanized boat.
The fishermen’s associations have vociferously condemned these repeated arrests, labeling them a significant threat to their livelihoods. Antony John, leader of a fishermen’s association in Rameswaram, voiced serious concerns regarding the rising number of detentions.
“The Sri Lankan Navy is consistently arresting our fishermen. They have even discharged fire at our men, causing injuries to two. This must cease,” he remarked. He also pointed out the hazards of fishing in the Palk Bay, where fishermen face the risk of losing their boats, equipment, and means of survival.
Fishermen’s leaders are urging the Central government to undertake swift diplomatic initiatives to facilitate the release of the detained fishermen and recover the seized boats. They have also called for a permanent resolution through a bilateral agreement with Sri Lanka.
Fishermen’s associations throughout Tamil Nadu have submitted letters to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, requesting immediate intervention to prevent further arrests and safeguard coastal communities.
In a previous correspondence, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin urged External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to advocate for diplomatic efforts aimed at securing the release of the detained fishermen. In his letter, CM Stalin underscored the profound economic repercussions stemming from these recurrent arrests and boat seizures. “The ongoing arrests and confiscations have drastically impacted the livelihoods of our fishermen. Immediate diplomatic intervention is crucial to protect their rights,” he stated.
Reports indicate that since June 16, 2024, the Sri Lankan Navy has detained 425 fishermen from Tamil Nadu and confiscated 58 fishing boats. These frequent detentions have sparked widespread protests, with fishermen accusing both the Union and State governments of failing to provide a sustainable solution.
Former Union Minister and PMK President Anbumani Ramadoss has urged the Indian government to adopt strong measures against Sri Lanka’s actions. He emphasized the urgent necessity of resolving maritime boundary disputes to ensure the safety and security of Tamil Nadu fishermen. With more protests anticipated across coastal districts, fishermen’s associations persist in advocating for immediate and lasting resolutions through diplomatic channels.
