Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Tuesday called for swift action from the central government regarding the arrest of 17 fishermen from Rameswaram by the Sri Lankan Navy. The fishermen and their two mechanised boats were detained on December 24.
Stalin conveyed his concerns in a letter to External affairs minister S Jaishankar, urging immediate diplomatic efforts for their release.
The chief minister also drew attention to two incidents from 20 December, where fishermen from Kodiyakkarai in Nagapattinam district faced attacks at sea. Six unidentified Sri Lankan nationals allegedly injured three fishermen and looted their fishing gear, including GPS devices, VHF equipment, mobile phones, and their catch.
Stalin expressed alarm over the growing dangers faced by Tamil Nadu’s fishing communities. “In 2024 alone, 530 fishermen were arrested and 71 boats have been confiscated till date. The recent apprehensions and attacks have created a sense of fear among the fishing folks who are solely dependent on fishing for their livelihood,” he added.
Stalin appealed to the centre to take immediate diplomatic steps to secure the release of the detained fishermen and their boats. He also stressed the need for measures to prevent future attacks and ensure the safety of fishermen.
“This situation demands urgent attention to uphold the rights and livelihoods of our fishing communities,” Stalin emphasised in his letter to Jaishankar.
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