NE NEWS SERVICE
CHENNAI, APRIL 3
At least 12 Indian fishermen from Tamil Nadu were arrested by the Sri Lankan navy on Sunday for allegedly fishing in its waters, an official said.
One boat was also impounded. The fishers were engaged in fishing near Katchatheevu late on Saturday when they were apprehended by the Lankan navy, the official said. Ramanathapuram MP K Navaskani has taken up the matter with the External Affairs Ministry.
This is the third instance of the Sri Lankan navy arresting Indian fishermen for alleged maritime boundary violations since March 29. A total of seven fishermen were apprehended on Tuesday and Thursday. Two boats used by the fishermen were also then seized.
The Rameshwaram Fishermen Committee Secretary issued a strong protest against the arrest of Indian fishermen. Sagayam said the Sri Lankan troops are arresting fishermen despite the ongoing economic crisis in their country. He asked the Central government to take the necessary steps to release the fishermen. He also threatened to organize protests.
This comes despite requests from India, asking Sri Lankan officials to view the issue of fishermen’s arrest as a humanitarian issue.
