The incident occurred on the evening of 30th September 2023.
Background
The Palk Strait is a narrow waterway that separates the Indian subcontinent from the island nation of Sri Lanka. It is approximately 53 kilometers long and is known for its rich marine biodiversity. The strait is also a significant shipping route, with many commercial vessels passing through it daily.
The Incident
On the evening of 30th September 2023, the Sri Lankan navy intercepted a group of 17 fishermen from the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, who were fishing in the Palk Strait. The fishermen were arrested on the charge of casting their nets in Sri Lanka’s territorial waters, which is prohibited under the country’s maritime law. The fishermen were reportedly fishing in the strait using traditional nets, which are not equipped with any electronic navigation aids. The Sri Lankan navy claimed that the fishermen were fishing in a restricted area, which is off-limits to Indian fishermen. The fishermen were taken into custody and are currently being held in a Sri Lankan prison.
International Reaction
The incident has sparked a strong reaction from the Indian government, with many calling for the release of the fishermen. The Indian government has issued a statement condemning the arrest and calling for the release of the fishermen.
The Incident
The incident occurred on Tuesday, when the fishermen from Kodiakkarai in Nagapattinam district ventured out in two country boats to fish in the sea. The fishermen were from Rameswaram, a coastal town in Tamil Nadu. The island navy of Rameswaram apprehended 17 fishermen and seized their two mechanised boats. The fishermen were fishing in the sea when they were attacked by the island navy. The attack was carried out in mid sea, making it difficult for the fishermen to escape. The fishermen were taken to the island navy base for questioning.
The Response of the Chief Minister
The Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu drew the attention of the External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to the attack on the fishermen. The Chief Minister expressed concern over the incident and urged the Centre to take necessary action to protect the fishermen. The Chief Minister’s response was seen as a strong statement against the island navy’s actions. The Chief Minister’s concern for the fishermen’s safety was evident in her statement. The Chief Minister’s call for action from the Centre was a clear indication of her commitment to protecting the fishermen.
The Significance of the Incident
The incident highlights the vulnerability of fishermen to attacks by island navies. The attack on the fishermen from Kodiakkarai in Nagapattinam district is a stark reminder of the risks faced by fishermen in Tamil Nadu. The incident highlights the need for greater protection for fishermen. The incident underscores the importance of international cooperation to prevent such attacks. The incident serves as a warning to island navies to respect the rights of fishermen.
The Way Forward
The incident highlights the need for greater cooperation between the Centre and the states to protect fishermen.
The Indian Fishing Controversy in Sri Lanka
The waters surrounding Sri Lanka have long been a source of contention between the island nation and India. One of the most contentious issues is the alleged overfishing by Indian fishermen in Sri Lanka’s waters beyond the designated maritime boundary.
Historical Background
The dispute between Sri Lanka and India over fishing rights dates back to the 1970s. At that time, Sri Lanka’s government began to restrict the fishing activities of Indian fishermen in its territorial waters. However, the Indian government responded by increasing the number of fishing boats and fishermen operating in the area.
The Palk Strait and the Banned Fishing Practice
The Palk Strait, which separates Sri Lanka from the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, is a vital fishing ground for both countries. However, the Sri Lankan government has banned the use of certain fishing gear, including gillnets and trawls, in the Palk Strait due to concerns over the impact on marine life. Despite the ban, Tamil fishermen in Sri Lanka’s northern and eastern provinces claim that their counterparts from Tamil Nadu are still using these banned fishing practices in the Palk Strait. The Sri Lankan government has accused Indian fishermen of violating the ban and overfishing in the area. The Tamil fishermen in Sri Lanka argue that the ban is being enforced selectively, with Sri Lankan authorities targeting their own fishermen while allowing Indian fishermen to continue their activities.
The Impact on Sri Lankan Fishermen
The dispute over fishing rights has had a significant impact on Sri Lankan fishermen.
