Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has reached out to Union Minister of External Affairs S. Jaishankar, requesting urgent intervention through diplomatic channels after 12 Tamil Nadu fishermen were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy. The fishermen, aboard an unregistered mechanised trawler, were apprehended while fishing between Dhanushkodi and Talaimannar, facing accusations of illegal fishing in Sri Lankan waters.
Stalin emphasized the ongoing challenges faced by Tamil Nadu fishermen due to frequent arrests and boat seizures in the Palk Strait area. He highlighted the detrimental impact on the livelihoods of coastal fishing communities, urging the Centre to facilitate discussions between India and Sri Lanka to find a lasting resolution to this recurring issue.
The Chief Minister also highlighted that a significant number of fishing boats and fishermen from Tamil Nadu are currently held in Sri Lankan custody, urging immediate action to prevent further detentions and secure the release of those already detained. The recent surge in fishing activity, indicated by the issuance of numerous fishing tokens, underscores the importance of safeguarding the rights and security of fishermen in the region.
