Expressing deep concern about the "troubling pattern" of apprehending Indian fishermen from Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister M K Stalin urged the Union government to re-establish a collaborative working group. Stalin emphasised the "urgent need" for diplomatic initiatives to address the ongoing situation.
In an official communication addressed to the External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, and made public by the state government, Stalin highlighted the recent arrest of six fishermen from Ramanathapuram district in the state, along with two fishing boats, by the Sri Lankan Navy on January 22, news agency PTI reported.
According to PTI, Stalin remarked, "In recent instances, there has been a disconcerting trend of detentions involving Tamil fishermen by the Sri Lankan authorities, creating a critical situation that necessitates immediate attention. These detentions not only undermine the longstanding fishing rights of the Tamil community but also contribute to an atmosphere of apprehension and uncertainty among the fishing population."
The Chief Minister emphasised that such detentions jeopardise these fundamental rights, posing a threat to the cultural and economic stability of Tamil fishing communities. "Given these concerns, there is an urgent need for diplomatic initiatives to address the situation. Reviving the Joint Working Group between India and Sri Lanka, with a specific focus on fisheries-related issues, could serve as a constructive platform for dialogue," he stated.
Stalin concluded his letter by urging the External Affairs Minister to take necessary actions through appropriate diplomatic channels to reconvene the Joint Working Group. The aim is to resolve the longstanding issues between Indian fishermen and the Sri Lankan Navy, preventing the unjust arrests of innocent fishermen.
The frequent arrests of Indian fishermen by the Sri Lankan navy in the recent past have been a matter of concern not just for the Centre but also for the Tamil Nadu government.
In the recent past, on January 13, the Sri Lankan Navy detained 12 Indian fishermen and seized their three trawlers.
In this regard, MK Stalin also wrote EAM S Jaishnkar to work for the 'immediate release' of 12 fishermen who were detained by Sri Lanka while fishing near the island nation.
In his statement, Stalin, "I would like to draw your attention to the apprehension of 12 fishermen and three fishing boats by the Sri Lankan Navy on January 13." Further, he urged "I request you to take up the matter with the Sri Lankan Government through appropriate diplomatic channels to immediately secure the release of our fishermen and their fishing boats", PTI reported.
In October of last year, CM Stalin also sent EAM Jaishankar a letter expressing concern about the frequent arrests of fishermen. EAM Jaishankar had been approached by Tamil Nadu BJP President K Annamalai on the matter.
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