The Sri Lankan Navy captured 19 fishermen from Tamil Nadu on January 23, however, they have now been sent back to their home country and are currently traveling to Chennai.
The Sri Lankan Navy has repeatedly arrested Indian fishermen, causing concern over the ongoing issue. In an attempt to highlight their longstanding grievances, the fishermen from Rameswaram organized a symbolic strike on February 5. During this strike, they presented a set of demands that aim to tackle the various challenges they encounter.
In a recent statement, the Sri Lankan Navy confirmed that they have apprehended a total of 23 fishing vessels and 178 Indian fishermen for allegedly engaging in fishing activities within the waters of the island nation in 2024. These individuals have been handed over to the relevant authorities for further legal action.
The release of 19 Indian fishermen is linked to the ongoing controversy surrounding the Katchatheevu island issue, with the ruling BJP in India accusing the Congress Party of giving away the island to Sri Lanka in 1974. Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted a media report on Sunday, revealing new information that suggests the Congress Party negligently handed over Katchatheevu island to Sri Lanka.
The Palk Strait, a slender body of water that divides Tamil Nadu from Sri Lanka, serves as a bountiful fishing area for fishermen hailing from both India and Sri Lanka. It is not uncommon for these fishermen to be apprehended on a regular basis due to unintentionally trespassing upon the territorial waters of the opposing country.
