EAM Jaishankar Promises TN CM to Assist in Releasing Indian Fishermen from Pakistani Custody

Chennai, Dec 12 (NationPress) The Union External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar provided assurances to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Thursday that his Ministry would persist with all required actions to ensure the swift release and repatriation of Indian fishermen currently held by Pakistan.

This commitment followed a letter from the Chief Minister, dated November 20, 2024, concerning the release of 14 Indian fishermen detained by Pakistani officials on January 3, 2024.

The group of fourteen fishermen, which includes seven from Tamil Nadu, was apprehended by the Pakistan Navy.

In his correspondence to Chief Minister Stalin, EAM Jaishankar mentioned that the Indian High Commission in Islamabad has been actively pursuing prompt consular access for the fishermen.

He also called upon Pakistan to guarantee their safety, security, and well-being until they can be repatriated.

"The High Commission will persist in following up on this issue and will undertake all necessary steps for their prompt release and repatriation," the Minister noted in his letter.

He highlighted that the Central government is aware of the fishermen's detention, along with their boats, Shri Vraj Bhumi and Mandeep, by Pakistani authorities on January 3, 2024.

The issue has been raised with the Pakistani government, and while consular access has been requested, it has yet to be granted.

The detained fishermen reportedly set out from Porbandar, Gujarat, for fishing when they were intercepted by the Pakistan Navy along with their two mechanized fishing vessels.

Stalin emphasized the humanitarian implications and the extended detention of the fishermen.

"In light of the prolonged detention and humanitarian concerns at stake, I urge you to address this issue through diplomatic channels to secure the immediate release of all the fishermen," Stalin wrote.

Indian fishermen from Tamil Nadu frequently face arrest and judicial custody by the Sri Lankan Navy.

Since June 16, 2024, the Sri Lankan Navy has allegedly detained 425 Tamil Nadu fishermen and confiscated 58 boats.

This situation has triggered widespread protests across Tamil Nadu's coastal regions, calling for immediate action from the Indian government.

During a recent trip to Sri Lanka, EAM Jaishankar raised the issue of ongoing arrests with the Sri Lankan authorities, advocating for measures to avert further detentions and boat seizures.

Nevertheless, despite these diplomatic conversations, arrests have persisted, heightening concerns within the fishing community.