Nineteen fishermen hailing from various coastal towns in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, who were detained by Sri Lankan Navy on March 6 for allegedly crossing territorial waters and later lodged in prison, returned to Chennai after their release from the jail. Among them, nine fishermen are from Mayiladuthurai, four from Pudukottai, and six from Karaikal, Puducherry.
According to ANI, a total of 19 fishermen, 9 from Mayiladuthurai, 4 from Pudukottai and 6 from Karaikal, Puducherry reached Chennai airport after they were released from Sri Lankan. The fishermen were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy for crossing the border on March 6.
ALSO READ: 4 Killed, Over 10 Injured After Blast At Chemical Factory In Telangana's Sangareddy
The Sri Lankan Navy recently confirmed in a statement that, thus far in 2024, they have held 23 Indian trawlers along with 178 Indian fishermen for purportedly engaging in fishing activities within Sri Lankan waters. The apprehended fishermen were handed over to authorities for further legal proceedings.
Tensions surrounding the fishermen's issue have long persisted in the relations between India and Sri Lanka. Instances of the Sri Lankan Navy reportedly firing at Indian fishermen in the Palk Strait and seizing their boats have escalated the controversy.
The release of 19 Indian fishermen comes amidst heightened tensions over the Katchatheevu island issue. The ruling BJP in India has pointed fingers at the Congress Party, accusing them of relinquishing control of the small island to Sri Lanka back in 1974.
Additionally, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also criticized the Congress Party and the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) concerning the Katchchatheevu island issue.