In recent developments surrounding the Katchatheevu island matter, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched scathing criticisms against the Congress and the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). PM Modi, citing revelations from an RTI reply, accused the Congress of callously ceding the island to Sri Lanka during the tenure of the Indira Gandhi government in 1974. The Prime Minister emphasized how this act has stirred public outrage, reaffirming the sentiment that the Congress cannot be trusted.
PM Modi further highlighted the Congress’s alleged disregard for Bharat’s interests, unity, and integrity during its governance over the years. He asserted that the recent disclosures regarding the Katchatheevu island have exposed the Congress’s negligent approach, prompting widespread discontent among the Indian populace.
Additionally, PM Modi took aim at the DMK, asserting that new revelations regarding the island have unveiled the party’s double standards. He criticized the DMK’s failure to effectively safeguard Tamil Nadu’s interests, particularly those of the state’s fishermen community. PM Modi emphasized that both the Congress and the DMK prioritize their own political agendas over the welfare of the people, condemning their lack of concern for the repercussions of relinquishing control over Katchatheevu.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar Weighs In
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has echoed PM Modi’s sentiments, shedding light on the historical indifference displayed by past Prime Ministers towards the strategic significance of Katchatheevu. Minister Jaishankar highlighted how successive Congress administrations, including those led by Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi, overlooked the island’s importance, ultimately leading to its cession to Sri Lanka.
#WATCH | Delhi: On the Katchatheevu issue, EAM Jaishankar says, "… We are talking about 1958 and 1960… The main people in the case wanted to make sure that at least we should get the fishing rights… The island was given away in 1974 and the fishing rights were given away in… pic.twitter.com/HYCIEjbz2A
— ANI (@ANI) April 1, 2024
Minister Jaishankar emphasized the significance of the issue, particularly in light of the continuous detention of Bharatiya fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy. He underscored the persistent efforts made by the Bharatiya government, including responding to inquiries from the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, to address the concerns surrounding Katchatheevu and ensure the safety and rights of Bharatiya fishermen operating in the region.
VIDEO | VIDEO | Here's what External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) said on the Katchatheevu island issue during a press conference.
"We should get the fishing right. The island was given away in 1974 and fishing rights were given away in 1976. The most basic… pic.twitter.com/sVfXx3EfPm
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) April 1, 2024
In conclusion, both PM Modi and Minister Jaishankar have brought renewed attention to the Katchatheevu island issue, highlighting the historical negligence of past administrations and calling for greater accountability in safeguarding Bharat’s territorial interests and the well-being of its citizens.
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