Thirty Indian fishermen have been repatriated from Sri Lanka and are currently en route back to India, as confirmed by the Indian High Commission in Colombo. The fishermen’s return follows a history of detentions by Sri Lankan authorities, often related to alleged violations of the International Maritime Boundary Line in the Palk Bay and Palk Strait region.
The repatriation of Indian fishermen from Sri Lanka has been a recurring issue, with diplomatic efforts by Indian authorities and appeals from the Tamil Nadu government playing a role in securing periodic releases. Recently, a group of 14 Indian fishermen was repatriated on March 14 after being detained for maritime boundary violations by the Sri Lankan Coast Guard.
In a separate incident, nine Indian fishermen were repatriated on March 20, while three others were sent back on March 17. The issue of fishermen crossing the maritime boundary is a key topic in bilateral discussions between India and Sri Lanka, with both countries emphasizing the importance of a humane approach and exploring long-term solutions to prevent such incidents.
