Tensions Rise as Sri Lankan Navy Detains Tamil Nadu Fishermen: What’s Next?

Sri Lankan Navy Intercepts Fishermen from Tamil Nadu

Chennai: On Tuesday, the Sri Lankan Navy apprehended 12 fishermen from the coastal areas of Tamil Nadu, accusing them of illegal fishing in international waters, which underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Indian fishermen in the Palk Strait.

Officials from the Tamil Nadu Fisheries Department reported that the detained fishermen were from Rameswaram and Thangachimadam in the Ramanathapuram district. They were reportedly fishing between Dhanushkodi and Talaimannar when a Sri Lankan Navy surveillance unit intercepted them.

According to fisheries officials, the Sri Lankan naval forces took the fishermen and their mechanized trawler to a naval port in Sri Lanka for further legal action.

The fishermen are charged with crossing the maritime boundary and fishing unlawfully in Sri Lankan waters, a claim that Indian fishermen often contest, citing the disputed nature of the fishing zone.

On December 22, approximately 450 fishing tokens were distributed to fishermen at the Rameswaram fishing jetty, indicating a surge in fishing activities in anticipation of the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

The trawler that was seized belonged to Jothibas, a fisherman from Manthoppu in Thangachimadam. Although the vessel was not officially registered, it had received a fishing token, raising concerns about regulatory oversight.

Among those detained are Prabhat (28), James Heiton (29), and Antony (32), all of whom are the primary earners for their families.

The news of their detention has sparked worry among fishing communities in Rameswaram and surrounding coastal areas. Local fishermen voiced their fears regarding the frequent arrests and confiscation of boats, which they claim significantly impacts their livelihoods.

They have urged both the Tamil Nadu and Union governments to take diplomatic measures to ensure the swift release of the detained fishermen and their trawler.

In response, fishermen's associations in the area are planning to hold an emergency meeting later on Tuesday to discuss the situation and determine their next steps, which may include protests and calls for ongoing government support.