Tamil Nadu CM Urges MEA to Act as Sri Lankan Navy Arrests Three Fishermen

COLOMBO (News 1st); Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has written to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, seeking urgent diplomatic intervention after the Sri Lankan Navy arrested three fishermen from Thangachimadam in Ramanathapuram district on Sunday for allegedly crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL).

Their mechanised boat was also seized.
In his letter, Stalin expressed deep concern over the recurring arrests, stating:

"The apprehension of Tamil Nadu fishers and their vessels by the Sri Lankan authorities continues unabated with alarming frequency. This has led to severe disruption of our fishermen’s livelihood. As of now, a total of 248 fishing boats and 61 fishermen from Tamil Nadu are under Sri Lankan custody."

He urged the Union Government to secure the immediate release of the fishermen and their boats.

The arrested fishermen — Amostin A (24), Jonedass S (37), and Paraloga Jebastian Anrose A (25) — had ventured out from Mandabam North fishing harbour along with over 300 mechanised vessels on Sunday morning. 

While fishing near Neduntheevu, they were detained and later handed over to the Jaffna Fisheries Department at Mailady harbour after questioning at a Sri Lankan Navy camp.

The boat, registered as TN 11 MM 096, belongs to one Joseph.

The arrests have triggered an indefinite strike by the Mandabam Fishermen Association, starting Monday, demanding swift action from the Union Government.