How is Congress MP urging for the rescue of TN fishermen stranded in Iran, Israel?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Immediate action is needed to ensure the safety of stranded fishermen.
- Over a thousand fishermen from Tamil Nadu are at risk in Iran and Israel.
- Political pressure is mounting on the government for a swift response.
- Escalating tensions in the Middle East heighten the urgency of the situation.
- Recent evacuations of Indian nationals underscore the need for similar action for fishermen.
Chennai, June 22 (NationPress) Congress MP from Kanyakumari, Vijay Vasanth, has called upon the Ministry of External Affairs to take swift diplomatic actions to aid Indian fishermen from Tamil Nadu who are currently stranded in Iran and Israel amidst rising tensions in West Asia.
In a letter sent to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Sunday, Vasanth expressed grave concerns regarding the safety of over a thousand fishermen from the Kanyakumari district who find themselves in perilous situations due to the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel.
“The escalating conflict has resulted in a precarious situation for civilians, especially for Indian nationals abroad,” Vasanth stated in his correspondence.
“The circumstances have worsened following recent military actions by the United States in Iran. Our fishermen now encounter severe dangers to both their lives and livelihoods,” he added.
The parliamentarian emphasized that numerous fishermen from coastal Tamil Nadu are engaged in the marine industry in both Iran and Israel.
With their movement heavily restricted and diplomatic conditions uncertain, returning to India has become increasingly challenging.
Highlighting the recent evacuation of Indian students from conflict-affected areas, Vasanth urged the Central government to provide similar assistance to the stranded fishermen.
“I sincerely request the Government of India to initiate immediate and effective diplomatic measures to ensure the safe return of these citizens. The safety of Indians overseas should be a priority,” he stressed.
Vasanth’s plea arises at a time when tensions in the Middle East are at a critical juncture, posing heightened risks to Indian workers, particularly in coastal and oil-related employment.
While the Ministry of External Affairs has yet to release an official statement concerning the fishermen’s plight, calls for action are intensifying from political and civil society groups in Tamil Nadu.