In a recent incident, the Sri Lankan Navy apprehended 26 Indian fishermen and seized four boats near the Palk Bay sea area. The fishermen, hailing from Pamban in the Rameswaram Island area, were fishing when they were detained. This action has sparked protests by the Fishermen Association of Pamban, which condemned the Sri Lankan Navy’s move.
Following the arrests, fishermen from Pamban and their families staged a road blockade to protest against the detention. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has intervened, urging India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to act swiftly.
In response to the outcry, Jaishankar assured that the Indian High Commission in Colombo and the Consulate in Jaffna are actively working to secure the release of the detained fishermen. He underscored the Indian government’s ongoing efforts since 2014 to safeguard the interests of the fishing community, particularly in humanitarian aspects. Jaishankar reiterated India’s commitment to prioritizing the welfare and security of Indian fishermen.
Stalin further called for the convening of a Joint Working Group to prevent future arrests and ensure the prompt release of all fishermen and their boats held by Sri Lankan authorities.
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The families of the fishermen have appealed to both central and state governments to take necessary actions for the early release of those detained.
The issue highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Indian fishermen in the Palk Bay sea area, where territorial disputes often lead to such incidents. Efforts from both governments are crucial in resolving these disputes and ensuring the safety and livelihoods of fishermen from both countries.
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