Will Fishermen in TN's Rameswaram Succeed in Their Protest for the Release of 12 Arrested Fishermen?
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Synopsis
Fishermen in Tamil Nadu's Rameswaram are protesting for the release of their colleagues detained by Sri Lankan authorities. With fishing activities halted, families are left in distress. The situation has drawn significant public attention, leading to road blockades and meetings with officials. Will their demands be met?
Key Takeaways
- One-day protest by fishermen in Rameswaram.
- 12 fishermen arrested by Sri Lankan Navy.
- Families are in distress due to the detentions.
- Road blockade caused major traffic disruptions.
- Fishermen associations demand urgent government action.
Chennai, Dec 24 (NationPress) On Wednesday, a significant one-day protest is taking place among motor-boat fishermen in Tamil Nadu's Rameswaram, halting all fishing operations to demand the swift release of 12 fishermen detained by the Sri Lankan Navy for allegedly violating the maritime boundary.
This demonstration arises from growing frustration within the fishing community after the arrested fishermen were imprisoned, leaving their families in a state of distress and uncertainty.
The fishermen, all from Rameswaram, were apprehended by the Sri Lankan Navy, prompting widespread concern among coastal villagers in Ramanathapuram district.
On Tuesday evening, the families of the arrested fishermen initiated an unexpected road blockade on the national highway at Thangachimadam. The protest began around 4:30 p.m. and lasted for over an hour, with more than 300 participants, including many women relatives of the fishermen.
As a result, traffic on the busy highway was halted, creating long queues of vehicles in both directions and causing major inconvenience to commuters. Officials, including Ramanathapuram Revenue Divisional Officer Kabeeb Rahman and Rameswaram Assistant Superintendent of Police Meera, arrived at the scene to engage with the protesters. Family members made it clear they would not end the protest until tangible measures were taken to secure the fishermen’s release.
After officials assured them of immediate government action to facilitate the release of the detained fishermen, the protesters dispersed peacefully.
Meanwhile, a joint consultative meeting of all power-boat fishermen associations took place at the Rameswaram harbour beach on Tuesday. The meeting urged both the Union and Tamil Nadu governments to take urgent diplomatic and administrative steps to rescue the 12 fishermen currently held in Sri Lankan custody.
The associations also called for the release of all Indian fishermen imprisoned in Sri Lanka for extended periods, as well as the retrieval of boats seized during such incidents, which serve as the primary source of income for numerous families.
Additionally, the meeting demanded a permanent resolution to the ongoing fishermen's issues in the Palk Strait region.
The fishermen resolved to seek an audience with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his planned visit to Rameswaram on January 13, to personally present their demands to both the central and state governments. In addition to the current strike, the associations have decided to hold a large protest demonstration in front of the Rameswaram bus stand on January 26, indicating an escalation of their agitation if their demands are not addressed.
Point of View
It's crucial to emphasize that the plight of fishermen crossing maritime boundaries is a recurring issue that must be addressed. The ongoing protests in Rameswaram highlight the urgent need for diplomatic intervention and sustainable solutions to protect our fishermen's rights and livelihoods. The nation must stand united in supporting the families affected by these detentions.
NationPress
24/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are the fishermen protesting?
The fishermen are protesting to demand the immediate release of 12 of their colleagues who were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy for allegedly crossing the maritime boundary.
What actions have the families taken?
The families of the detained fishermen staged a road blockade on the national highway in Thangachimadam, involving over 300 participants.
What are the fishermen associations requesting?
The fishermen associations are urging the Union and Tamil Nadu governments to take urgent steps for the release of the detained fishermen and to address ongoing issues affecting fishermen in the Palk Strait.
What is the future plan of the protesting fishermen?
The fishermen plan to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Rameswaram on January 13 and have scheduled another protest on January 26 if their demands are not met.
What is the significance of this protest?
This protest highlights the ongoing struggles of fishermen in the region and the need for diplomatic solutions to prevent such detentions and safeguard their livelihoods.
