Chennai: The Sri Lankan Navy apprehended 23 fishermen from Tamil Nadu and confiscated two boats on allegations of unauthorized crossing of the maritime border during a sanctioned fishing expedition. The group, consisting of 3,000 individuals operating 540 boats, had received permits from Fisheries Department authorities before setting out on their journey. Upon returning to Rameswaram and crossing Neduntheevu around 2 am, the Sri Lankan Navy reportedly encircled them, prompting the fishermen to disband. Consequently, boats and fishing nets were damaged, and 23 fishermen were taken into custody by the Sri Lankan Navy.
This incident occurred shortly after Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin expressed apprehension over the January 22 arrest of six fishermen from Ramanathapuram, deeming it a "disturbing trend." In response, Stalin penned a letter to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, emphasizing the need for immediate diplomatic intervention. He urged the Central government to establish a dedicated team to address the escalating situation and protect the interests of Tamil Nadu fishermen.
The detention of fishermen and seizure of boats by the Sri Lankan Navy underscore the ongoing challenges and disputes in the maritime border region, requiring diplomatic efforts to navigate and resolve the complex issues affecting the livelihoods and safety of fishermen from Tamil Nadu.
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