Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has reached out to India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, urging swift diplomatic action for the release of 27 fishermen and their five boats detained by the Sri Lankan navy. In response, fishermen in Rameswaram have initiated an indefinite strike and a series of protests until their fellow fishermen and all their boats are returned from Sri Lankan custody.
Stalin’s Plea for Diplomatic Intervention
In his letter to the External Affairs Minister, Chief Minister Stalin expressed deep concern over the recurring arrests and confiscations of Indian fishermen by the Sri Lankan navy. He underscored the profound impact of these incidents on the livelihoods of the fishermen and their families, who often rely on fishing as their sole source of income. These detentions not only result in lost earnings for the fishermen but also imperil the food security of countless individuals who depend on their catch.
27 Fishermen Detained, 120 Boats in Custody
The Sri Lankan navy detained 27 fishermen, including 23 from Rameswaram and four from Mandapam, accusing them of poaching in Sri Lankan territorial waters. Currently, 120 fishing boats are in Sri Lankan custody, compounding the crisis.
Fishermen Declare Indefinite Strike
In response to the arrest of their fellow fishermen, leaders of the fishing community in Rameswaram have declared an indefinite strike. All fishing boats are docked at the jetties, and the fishermen are demanding the release of all 120 boats held by Sri Lanka. They are also calling on the Indian government to take proactive steps to secure the release of the detained fishermen and their boats.
Protests Planned in Rameswaram
In addition to the ongoing strike, the fishermen are planning protests in front of the Rameswaram post office. Their primary demands include immediate action by the Indian government to ensure the release of detained fishermen and their boats. They are also seeking permission to salvage nine boats that have been released by Sri Lankan courts.
Impact on Livelihoods and Food Security
The repeated arrests and confiscations of Indian fishermen by the Sri Lankan navy have sown fear and uncertainty within the fishing community. These actions put at risk not only the livelihoods of the fishermen and their families, who depend heavily on fishing for their income, but also threaten the food security of those who rely on the fish catch.
