Chennai: Fishermen from Ramanathapuram and Thangachimadom regions in Tamil Nadu are gearing up to stage a protest against the recurrent arrests inflicted by the Sri Lankan Navy, along with pirate attacks encountered at sea. The community, aggrieved by the continuous threats to their livelihood, plans to block roads as a demonstration of their plight.
KM Antony, a prominent leader representing the fishermen in Rameswaram, expressed the collective frustration, stating that despite contributing significantly to the nation’s revenue, the safety of fishermen remains perilously compromised. The looming specter of attacks during fishing expeditions, whether from pirates or naval forces alleging border violations, instills constant fear among the families of these fishermen.
The recent incident saw the arrest of 23 fishermen from Rameswaram and Thangachimadom by the Sri Lankan Navy, accompanied by the confiscation of two mechanized boats. These fishermen were accused of crossing the International Maritime Border Line (IMBL) and engaging in poaching activities within Sri Lankan waters.
Antony further highlighted a separate episode where pirates targeted a fishing vessel, assaulting the crew and absconding with valuable equipment, including GPS devices and satellite phones. Such incidents underscore the grave dangers faced by Tamil Nadu fishermen in their daily pursuits.
Statistics reveal a grim reality, with the Sri Lankan Navy detaining 243 fishermen and seizing 37 boats in 2023 alone. The recent surge in arrests, encompassing 88 fishermen and 12 boats within the past 28 days, underscores the escalating tensions at sea. Presently, 77 fishermen and 151 boats languish in Sri Lankan custody, awaiting resolution.
In response to the mounting crisis, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has petitioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging diplomatic intervention to secure the release of detained fishermen. The letter underscores the urgency of addressing the plight of these fishermen, whose livelihoods are intricately tied to the seas they navigate with uncertainty.