Arrest of Tamil Nadu Fishermen by Sri Lankan Navy: Ongoing Concerns and Calls for Action.Chennai: The arrest of Tamil Nadu fishermen by Sri Lankan Navy has become a distressing issue, with 32 fishermen from Rameswaram recently apprehended. They were arrested for allegedly crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) while fishing in Sri Lankan waters. This incident took place during the early morning hours of Sunday, and it involved the seizure of five costly mechanized boats by Sri Lankan authorities.
Background of Recent Arrests
This recent incident is not isolated. Just three days prior, on February 19, the Sri Lankan Navy detained 10 fishermen from Rameswaram for similar reasons. During that late-night operation, three mechanized fishing boats were also seized. According to local fishermen leaders, the arrested individuals were taken to Jaffna in Sri Lanka for further questioning.
Tamil Nadu coastal police officials confirmed that these fishermen were apprehended for allegedly violating maritime boundaries. The issue of Tamil Nadu fishermen being detained by the Sri Lankan Navy has become a recurring problem, stirring unrest within the local fishing community. Fishermen’s associations have reported multiple incidents, including the arrest of 14 fishermen on February 9 and 10 fishermen on February 3, all for allegedly crossing the IMBL.
Community Response and Demands
In response to these arrests, families of the detained fishermen have rallied together with local fishing communities. They are urging both the Central and state governments to take immediate action to secure their release. Fishermen’s association leaders have announced plans for large-scale protests in Rameswaram and other coastal areas, condemning the ongoing arrests.
Antony John, a leader of the fishermen’s association from Rameswaram, expressed his deep concern regarding the escalating detentions. “The Sri Lankan Navy is arresting our fishermen regularly. They have even fired at our men, injuring two of them. This has to stop,” he stated. He emphasized the dangers faced by fishermen in the Palk Bay, a region fraught with risks that jeopardize their boats, equipment, and livelihoods.
Calls for Diplomatic Action
Fishermen’s associations have called upon the Indian government to take swift diplomatic action to secure the release of the detained fishermen and recover impounded boats. They advocate for a permanent resolution through a bilateral agreement with Sri Lanka. Letters have been sent to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging his urgent intervention to prevent further arrests and protect coastal communities.
Conclusion
Reports indicate that since June 16, 2024, the arrest of Tamil Nadu fishermen by Sri Lankan Navy has resulted in the detention of 425 fishermen and the seizure of 58 fishing boats. These frequent arrests have fueled widespread protests, with fishermen accusing both the Union and state governments of failing to provide a lasting solution to the maritime boundary disputes. Former Union Minister and PMK President Anbumani Ramadoss has urged the Indian government to take strong measures against Sri Lanka’s actions, highlighting the urgent need for resolution.
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