Why Were Four Fishermen from Andhra Released from Sri Lankan Jail?
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Synopsis
Four fishermen's dramatic return to Andhra Pradesh after a prolonged imprisonment in Sri Lanka due to a navigation error highlights the urgency of governmental intervention in international maritime incidents. Their heartfelt gratitude towards the TDP government emphasizes the importance of effective diplomatic relations.
Key Takeaways
- Four fishermen from Andhra Pradesh were released after 52 days in Sri Lankan jail.
- Their imprisonment was a result of a navigational error.
- Government intervention was crucial for their release.
- The fishermen expressed gratitude towards the local government.
- They were repatriated via the sea route, following Sri Lankan regulations.
Amaravati, Sep 30 (NationPress) Four fishermen from Andhra Pradesh, who spent 52 days in a Sri Lankan prison after accidentally drifting to the island due to a navigation mistake, finally returned home on Tuesday.
K. Srinu Venkateswar, Karri Nookaraj Borriya, Chanda Nageswara Rao, and Brahmanandam arrived at Kakinada by boat, where they were warmly welcomed by local MP Uday Srinivas and MLA Kondababu.
Expressing their joy upon returning after nearly two months, the fishermen conveyed their gratitude to the TDP-led coalition government for its dedicated efforts in securing their release.
The vessel transporting the fishermen departed from the Sri Lankan coast heading to Kakinada on September 27.
Initially, the fishermen traveled to Nagapattinam to acquire a second-hand fishing trawler, but they accidentally drifted into Sri Lankan waters due to a GPS malfunction on their way back.
On August 4, the Sri Lankan Navy detained them for allegedly entering their territorial waters illegally, leading to their confinement in Jaffna Jail.
A civil court in Jaffna ordered their release on September 12.
Following interventions from Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries K. Atchannaidu and Kakinada MP, officials from AP Bhavan in Delhi reached out to the Indian High Commission in Colombo.
Efforts were also made by Andhra Pradesh Resident Commissioner Arja Srikanth through the Indian Coast Guard office in Delhi.
On September 26, the fishermen were handed over to the Indian Coast Guard at Mandapam Camp, from where they proceeded to Kakinada.
They were repatriated via the sea route in compliance with Sri Lankan regulations, with the Indian Coast Guard ensuring their safe passage.
Minister Atchannaidu expressed his happiness over their safe return, having previously discussed the matter with Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu to facilitate their journey back.
Officials indicated that had the state government not acted promptly, the fishermen could have faced up to six months in jail.
Point of View
It is our duty to report on such incidents with impartiality and clarity. The return of these fishermen underlines the complexities of international maritime laws and the necessity for quick governmental responses. The collaboration between state authorities and diplomatic channels is crucial in resolving such matters effectively.
NationPress
30/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How did the fishermen end up in Sri Lankan waters?
The fishermen drifted into Sri Lankan waters due to a GPS error while returning from Nagapattinam after purchasing a fishing trawler.
What actions were taken for their release?
The Andhra Pradesh government, along with officials from the Indian High Commission, intervened to secure their release through diplomatic channels.
How long were the fishermen imprisoned?
They were imprisoned for a total of 52 days before being released.
What was the response from local government officials?
Local officials, including MP Uday Srinivas, warmly welcomed the fishermen upon their return and expressed gratitude towards the government for their safe release.
What could have happened if the government had not intervened?
If the state government had not acted swiftly, the fishermen could have faced up to six months in jail.
