Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Urges Diplomatic Action for Release of Fishermen Held by Sri Lanka

Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has formally requested External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to intervene diplomatically for the release of six Indian fishermen detained by the Sri Lankan Navy. The fishermen were arrested on May 10 for allegedly crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line. Currently, 54 Indian fishermen are imprisoned in Sri Lanka, and the Chief Minister has urged for their swift release and safe return. This situation highlights ongoing tensions regarding fishing rights in the region and the need for diplomatic engagement.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 12, 2026, 18:50 IST

Request for Immediate Diplomatic Intervention

The Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, C. Joseph Vijay, has reached out to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, requesting urgent diplomatic intervention for the release of Indian fishermen detained by Sri Lankan authorities. In a letter dated May 12, Vijay highlighted the arrest of six fishermen from Mandapam in the Ramanathapuram district by the Sri Lankan Navy. These fishermen had set out for fishing on May 10 and were reportedly taken into custody along with their boat for allegedly crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL).

Details of the Arrested Fishermen

The fishermen who were apprehended have been identified as Alex, Anthony Rajan, Santhana Alokiyas, Arul The Brito, Albert, and Sahaya Selvan. The Chief Minister emphasized the need to address the situation concerning these six fishermen, who were detained by the Sri Lankan Navy while fishing on May 10, 2026. They were arrested on allegations of crossing the IMBL along with their fishing vessel.

Current Situation of Indian Fishermen in Sri Lanka

Vijay also pointed out that there are currently 54 Indian fishermen imprisoned in Sri Lanka, with Sri Lankan authorities having seized 264 fishing boats. He urged the External Affairs Minister to utilize all available diplomatic channels to ensure the swift release of the detained fishermen and their boats, stressing the importance of their safe return to India. The Chief Minister's letter calls for immediate action to address the plight of the fishermen already incarcerated in Sri Lankan jails.