Sri Lankan Navy Apprehends 12 Tamil Nadu Fishermen, Seizes Trawler for Crossing Maritime Boundary
In a significant incident on Monday, the Sri Lankan navy detained twelve fishermen from Tamil Nadu and confiscated their mechanised trawler, accusing them of illegally crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL). The event has escalated tensions and prompted urgent diplomatic appeals from Indian authorities.
Details of the Incident and Arrest
According to police reports, over 500 fishermen had set out from the Pamban fishing harbour in Ramanathapuram aboard more than 90 mechanised boats. Among them, a boat owned by David was engaged in fishing activities in the southern region of the Gulf of Mannar when it was intercepted by the Sri Lankan navy.
The navy apprehended all twelve crew members on board. Subsequently, the vessel and the fishermen were escorted to Negombo harbour, where they were formally handed over to the Department of Fisheries. A chargesheet was filed against the twelve men, citing violations related to crossing the IMBL and the use of banned fishing nets.
The fishermen were produced before the Puttalam court, which remanded them under judicial custody. They are currently being held at Negombo prison, awaiting further legal proceedings.
Chief Minister Stalin's Urgent Appeal to EAM Jaishankar
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin has taken immediate action by writing to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. In his letter, Stalin emphasized the critical need for the expeditious release of all the detained fishermen and their boats.
Stalin highlighted that, as of now, a total of 116 fishermen and 259 boats from Tamil Nadu are under Sri Lankan custody. He expressed deep concern over the recurring nature of such incidents, which have plunged coastal communities into a state of profound anxiety and uncertainty regarding their livelihood and safety.
"I request the Union government to take up this matter immediately through appropriate diplomatic channels to prevent further apprehensions and to secure the early release of all detained fishermen along with their fishing boats," stated Chief Minister Stalin in his communication.
Broader Implications and Ongoing Concerns
This latest detention underscores the persistent maritime disputes and boundary issues between India and Sri Lanka. The repeated apprehensions of Tamil Nadu fishermen have not only strained bilateral relations but also severely impacted the economic and emotional well-being of fishing communities along the coast.
The incident raises urgent questions about the enforcement of maritime boundaries and the need for robust diplomatic interventions to safeguard the rights and security of fishermen. Stakeholders are calling for sustained dialogue and cooperative measures to prevent such occurrences in the future and ensure the safe return of all detained individuals and assets.
