Tamil Nadu fishermen in 424 boats were confronted by the Sri Lankan Navy while they were fishing near Katchatheevu off the coast of Rameshwaram. The Sri Lankan Navy deployed more than 10 fast boats to surround the fishermen, leading to a tense standoff.
Sri Lankan Navy personnel accused the Tamil fishermen of crossing the International Maritime border. The Tamil fishermen were threatened with arrest and the fishermen were eventually chased away from the area.
Calling the issue Sri Lankan Navy atrocities, the fishermen’s team shared their harrowing experience. Each of the 424 boats involved in the fishing expedition reported losses amounting to Rs 70,000.
Sagayam, a member of the fishermen’s team, expressed frustration at what he sees as unchecked actions by the Sri Lankan Navy. On September 13, when three boats from Rameswaram, Jagathapattinam, and Nagapattinam were seized, and 17 fishermen were arrested, a one-day protest was held.
Sagayam further emphasised the need for the Union Government to reclaim the traditional fishing rights near Katchatheevu to protect the interests of local fishermen.
https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/sri-lankan-navy-accuses-tamil-fishermen-of-crossing-maritime-border-2437705-2023-09-19?utm_source=rss
