SL Navy Detains Fishermen: AIADMK Critiques Stalin Government's Inaction

Chennai, Jan 28 (NationPress) AIADMK general secretary and opposition leader in Tamil Nadu Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) has condemned the DMK-led state administration for the ongoing apprehension of Tamil Nadu fishermen by the Sri Lanka Navy.

In a recent social media update, EPS accused the DMK government of merely sending correspondences to the Central government each time fishermen from Tamil Nadu are detained by the Sri Lankan forces.

Expressing dismay over the latest incidents, EPS remarked, “The families of the affected fishermen are distressed by the rising number of arrests and the confiscation of boats. They believe the DMK government is only resorting to writing letters to the Centre without taking any substantial action.”

He called upon the 39 Lok Sabha representatives from the DMK-led coalition to apply pressure within Parliament to address the situation and urged the Central government to initiate immediate discussions with Sri Lanka to achieve a permanent resolution.

On Tuesday morning, 13 fishermen from Rameswaram and Pudukottai were apprehended by the Sri Lanka Navy for allegedly breaching the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL). The detained fishermen were transported to Jaffna, where they are expected to undergo questioning and legal proceedings.

This latest incident adds to the escalating count, raising the total number of Tamil Nadu fishermen detained by Sri Lanka in the last three days to 47. The Sri Lanka Navy has also seized their mechanised fishing vessels.

The arrests have reignited worries concerning the vulnerable situation faced by Tamil Nadu’s fishing community, especially those working in the Palk Bay region. Fishermen’s associations throughout Tamil Nadu have vehemently condemned the arrests, citing significant economic challenges and rising fears within the community. They have organized large-scale demonstrations in coastal areas and have submitted petitions to the Prime Minister, calling for immediate intervention to halt mid-sea detentions and secure the release of the detained fishermen and their boats.

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has communicated with Union External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, requesting prompt diplomatic action. In his letter dated January 12, CM Stalin emphasized the ongoing arrests and their adverse effects on fishermen’s livelihoods.

“The continual arrests and boat seizures are gravely compromising our fishermen’s economic stability. Urgent action is necessary to ensure their release and protect their rights,” CM Stalin stressed.

Union Minister Jaishankar reportedly discussed this matter with Sri Lankan President Anura Dissanayake during the latter’s recent visit to India.

Despite these attempts, the arrests persist, heightening frustration and fear within the fishing community. Leaders of the fishermen’s groups have criticized both the Union and state governments for their inadequate response to the issue.

Antony John, a leader from Rameswaram, expressed his sorrow, stating, “Fishing in the Palk Bay is no longer secure. We are losing our livelihoods and assets to the Sri Lankan authorities. Since 2018, around 270 trawlers have been seized.”

Rajagopal C.M., another leader from Thangachimadam, shared similar concerns, noting that many detained fishermen remain incarcerated in Sri Lanka, leaving their families in financial distress.

Since June 16, 2024, the Sri Lanka Navy has detained a total of 425 Tamil Nadu fishermen and seized 58 fishing vessels. This ongoing crisis has triggered widespread protests, with calls for a long-term resolution.

Former Union Minister and Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) President Anbumani Ramadoss has also advocated for decisive measures by the Indian government to safeguard the rights and livelihoods of fishermen. This enduring issue highlights the urgent need to resolve maritime boundary disputes and ensure the safety and security of Tamil Nadu’s fishing communities.