Chennai, November 10:
Fourteen fishermen from Tamil Nadu’s Mayiladuthurai district were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy for allegedly crossing the maritime border near Kangesanthurai on Sunday. The fishermen, who had ventured into the sea for routine fishing activities, were detained along with their mechanised boats.
According to official sources, the arrests occurred during a patrol operation by the Sri Lankan Navy, which accused the Indian fishermen of trespassing into Sri Lankan territorial waters. The detained fishermen have been taken to Kangesanthurai Naval Base for further interrogation.
This latest incident brings the total number of Tamil Nadu fishermen arrested since September to 64, raising renewed concerns over the ongoing maritime disputes between India and Sri Lanka.
The Tamil Nadu government has urged the Union Ministry of External Affairs to take swift diplomatic action to secure the release of the fishermen and ensure their safe return home.
Fishermen’s associations in Nagapattinam and Mayiladuthurai have condemned the arrests, highlighting that frequent detentions disrupt livelihoods and create tension between the two nations. They have demanded a permanent solution to prevent recurring incidents.
The Palk Bay conflict, which has persisted for decades, often sees Indian fishermen inadvertently crossing into Sri Lankan waters due to the absence of clear maritime boundaries in fishing zones. Both governments have been holding discussions to establish mutual fishing rights and sustainable practices, but the arrests continue to occur.
The detained fishermen are expected to be produced before a Sri Lankan judicial authority in the coming days. The Indian Consulate in Jaffna is said to be monitoring the situation closely.
Impact on Regional Relations & Fishermen’s Safety
This recurring issue underscores the need for bilateral dialogue between India and Sri Lanka to define safe fishing zones. Tamil Nadu’s coastal communities rely heavily on fishing for survival, and such detentions create financial and emotional distress for families back home.
Experts also suggest introducing joint patrolling mechanisms and satellite tracking systems to prevent unintentional maritime crossings.
FAQ Section
1. Why were the Tamil Nadu fishermen arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy?
They were accused of crossing the international maritime boundary near Kangesanthurai while fishing.
2. How many Tamil Nadu fishermen are currently detained in Sri Lanka?
With the latest arrest, 64 fishermen have been detained since September this year.
3. What is the Tamil Nadu government doing about these arrests?
The Tamil Nadu Chief Minister has requested the Union Ministry of External Affairs to take diplomatic steps to secure their release.
4. Why do Indian fishermen often cross the Sri Lankan maritime border?
Due to unclear fishing boundaries and depletion of marine resources on the Indian side, fishermen sometimes stray into Sri Lankan waters unintentionally.
5. What long-term solution is being discussed between India and Sri Lanka?
Both countries are exploring joint fishing agreements, marine conservation programs, and livelihood alternatives for affected fishermen.
Published on : 10TH November
Published by : SARANYA
Source Credit ; Deepthi Rao
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