Eleven Fishermen from Tamil Nadu Freed from Sri Lankan Detention Arrive in Chennai
Click to start listening
Synopsis
On March 22, 11 fishermen from Rameswaram returned to Chennai after being released from Sri Lankan custody, alleviating concerns for their families. Tamil Nadu officials facilitated their return following diplomatic efforts, while ongoing tensions surrounding fishermen's arrests continue to raise alarms in the fishing community.
Key Takeaways
- 11 fishermen from Rameswaram released from Sri Lankan custody.
- Tamil Nadu officials received them at Chennai airport.
- Legal efforts led to their release after diplomatic negotiations.
- Concerns continue over the treatment of fishermen by Sri Lankan authorities.
- Growing financial strain on families of detained fishermen.
Chennai, March 22 (NationPress) After their release from Sri Lankan custody, 11 fishermen from Rameswaram have returned to Chennai, bringing relief to their families and the local communities.
The Tamil Nadu Fisheries Department officials welcomed them at the Chennai airport and arranged for their transport back to Rameswaram on Friday night.
The fishermen were apprehended on February 2, 19, and 23 near the Indian maritime border adjacent to Rameswaram.
The Sri Lankan Coast Guard intercepted their boats, confiscated the vessels, and took the fishermen into custody.
Following legal procedures, they were imprisoned in Sri Lanka.
In response to the situation, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin sent an urgent letter to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, seeking diplomatic intervention for the fishermen's release.
Consequently, officials from the Indian Embassy in Sri Lanka engaged in talks with their Sri Lankan counterparts, resulting in a favorable court decision that mandated the release of all 11 fishermen. Since the detained fishermen lacked passports, Indian embassy officials issued emergency certificates to facilitate their return. The embassy subsequently arranged their air travel to Chennai.
Previously, 13 Tamil fishermen, including one who suffered a gunshot wound, arrived in Chennai late Thursday night after being released from Sri Lankan custody.
These fishermen were arrested on January 27 for allegedly breaching the International Maritime Boundary Line.
They originated from Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, and Karaikal. The Sri Lankan Coast Guard seized two Indian fishing boats during the January incident, accusing the fishermen of trespassing into Sri Lankan waters.
During the arrest, 27-year-old Senthamizh from Karaikal was struck by a bullet in his right leg when the Sri Lankan Navy allegedly opened fire.
He received medical attention in Sri Lanka and was repatriated alongside the others. Upon arriving at the Chennai Airport, Senthamizh was immediately transported by ambulance to MGM Healthcare in Aminjikarai for further treatment.
The remaining 12 fishermen were greeted by Tamil Nadu Fisheries Department officials and provided transportation to their hometowns, courtesy of the state government.
CM Stalin had urged the Union Ministry of External Affairs to intervene in both cases, which resulted in the successful negotiations by the Indian embassy with Sri Lankan authorities. Emergency travel documents were issued to facilitate their return.
Since the start of 2025, Sri Lankan authorities have detained a total of 119 Indian fishermen and confiscated 16 fishing boats, exacerbating tensions between the two nations.
VP Sesuraja, a prominent fishermen's representative from Tamil Nadu, underscored the escalating financial strain on the families of detained fishermen. "They are compelled to pay substantial fines, and their livelihoods are disrupted for months," he stated.
The ongoing arrests and seizure of boats have instilled widespread fear among Tamil Nadu's fishing communities. Many fishermen are now reluctant to venture into the sea, fearing similar incidents.
Rajagopal C.M., a fishermen's leader from Thangachimadam, criticized the government's "inaction", remarking, "Many Indian fishermen remain imprisoned in Sri Lankan jails, and their families are enduring significant financial hardships."
He also noted that since 2018, nearly 270 Indian trawlers have been confiscated by Sri Lanka, severely impacting the fishing economy.
Reiterating his concerns, Chief Minister Stalin stressed the urgent requirement for diplomatic intervention to avert future arrests and ensure the safety and security of Tamil Nadu's fishermen.
He stated that resolving this longstanding issue is crucial for the survival and dignity of the fishing community.
