Sri Lankan Navy Detains 11 Tamil Nadu Fishermen, Confiscates Fishing Vessel
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Synopsis
On March 27, the Sri Lankan Navy arrested 11 fishermen from Tamil Nadu for crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line. This incident raises concerns over the escalating tensions between India and Sri Lanka regarding fishing rights.
Key Takeaways
- 11 fishermen from Tamil Nadu were detained.
- One mechanised boat was seized.
- Previous incident involved the detention of 13 fishermen.
- Fishermen's associations are planning protests.
- Calls for diplomatic intervention are increasing.
Chennai, March 27 (NationPress) On Thursday, the Sri Lankan Navy detained 11 fishermen from Tamil Nadu for reportedly breaching the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL).
Officials from the Tamil Nadu Fisheries Department stated that the detained fishermen were taken to the Kangesuthurai Naval Camp in Sri Lanka. Additionally, one mechanised fishing boat was confiscated during this operation.
This incident follows the detention of another group of 13 Tamil fishermen, who were previously held in January and were released, returning to Chennai late Wednesday night.
Among those released was 27-year-old Senthamizh from Karaikal, who suffered a gunshot injury to his right leg during the arrest when the Sri Lankan Navy discharged fire. He received treatment in Sri Lanka and, upon returning to Chennai, was immediately rushed by ambulance to MGM Private Hospital in Aminjikarai for further medical attention.
The group, originating from Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, and Karaikal, was arrested on January 27 after their two fishing vessels were intercepted by the Sri Lankan Coast Guard for allegedly operating within Sri Lankan waters. Both boats were confiscated during that incident.
Since the start of 2025, Sri Lankan authorities have captured 119 Indian fishermen and seized 16 fishing vessels, escalating tensions between the two nations.
Fishermen’s associations in Tamil Nadu are expressing increasing alarm over these ongoing arrests. V.P. Sesuraja, a leader among fishermen, pointed out the financial burden on the families of those detained, many of whom struggle to pay the hefty fines imposed by Sri Lanka. He mentioned that fear has now permeated various fishing communities, causing some fishermen to hesitate in venturing out to sea.
Numerous fishermen groups throughout the state are organizing large-scale protests. Antony John, a leader from one such group, announced that a coordinated demonstration is set to occur across all coastal districts. He called on the Union government to take decisive action to liberate the detained fishermen, recover confiscated vessels, and negotiate a bilateral agreement with Sri Lanka to avert future incidents.
Fishermen’s associations have also reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging immediate diplomatic measures to halt mid-sea arrests and protect the livelihoods of coastal communities.
Rajagopal C.M., a fishermen’s representative from Thangachimadam, criticized the lack of governmental response, stating that numerous Indian fishermen remain imprisoned in Sri Lanka, leaving their families in distress. He also highlighted that around 270 Indian trawlers have been seized since 2018, severely affecting the livelihoods of fishermen.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin reiterated the importance of robust diplomatic efforts to prevent future arrests and ensure the safety and security of Tamil fishermen. He stressed that resolving this prolonged issue is crucial for the survival and welfare of the fishing community.
