Sri Lankan Navy Detains 33 Tamil Nadu Fishermen, Seizes 3 Boats
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Synopsis
The Sri Lankan Navy has detained 33 fishermen from Tamil Nadu for allegedly breaching the International Maritime Boundary Line. Three high-value mechanized boats were also confiscated, prompting concerns over the safety and livelihood of local fishing communities.
Key Takeaways
- Sri Lankan Navy arrested 33 fishermen from Tamil Nadu.
- Three boats of high value were seized.
- Concerns raised over fishermen's safety and livelihood.
- CM M.K. Stalin calls for diplomatic intervention.
- Fishermen's associations demand urgent government action.
Chennai, Jan 26 (NationPress) The Sri Lankan Navy has taken into custody 33 fishermen from Tamil Nadu, accusing them of crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL). In addition, three mechanized boats of significant value were also confiscated, as reported by officials.
The detained fishermen are from Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu.
The Tamil Nadu Coastal Police stated that the arrests occurred in the early hours of Sunday (January 26) due to violations of the IMBL.
This situation has raised renewed concerns regarding the safety and livelihood of fishermen in the area.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, in a communication to Union External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on January 12, called for immediate diplomatic efforts to secure the release of the arrested Indian fishermen.
Expressing significant concern, CM Stalin emphasized the frequent detentions that have instilled fear and uncertainty among the fishing communities in Tamil Nadu.
“The ongoing arrests have led to considerable economic distress and jeopardized the traditional occupations of our fishermen. Immediate measures are necessary to guarantee their release, along with their confiscated vessels,” CM Stalin stated.
Fishermen's associations from across Tamil Nadu have vocally condemned these arrests, demanding urgent governmental intervention. Antony John, a representative from Rameswaram, criticized the Union government for its inaction regarding this ongoing issue.
“It has become increasingly unsafe for us to fish in the Palk Bay. We have not only lost our means of income but also our assets to the Sri Lankan authorities,” he remarked, noting that approximately 270 trawlers have been seized since 2018. This situation has left numerous fishermen jobless and facing mounting debts.
Rajagopal C.M., another leader from Thangachimadam, shared similar concerns, accusing both the Union and State governments of neglecting the challenges faced by fisherfolk.
Reports indicate that since June 16, 2024, the Sri Lankan Navy has apprehended 425 Tamil Nadu fishermen and confiscated 58 boats. Many of those detained are still imprisoned in Sri Lanka, leading to widespread protests and calls for governmental action.
This latest event highlights the pressing need for a coordinated diplomatic strategy to address the repeated arrests and protect the livelihoods of Tamil Nadu’s fishing communities.
