#palkbay

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, requesting him to take up the matter of Katchatheevu Island and other pressing concerns of Tamil Nadu fishermen during the visit of Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya.

Katchatheevu and Traditional Fishing Rights

In his letter, Stalin reminded the Prime Minister that Katchatheevu was transferred to Sri Lanka in 1974 without the consent of the Tamil Nadu government or proper parliamentary procedures. This transfer has restricted local fishermen from accessing their traditional fishing grounds and has frequently led to harassment by the Sri Lankan Navy.

“The Prime Minister should initiate discussions not only for the retrieval of Katchatheevu but also for restoring the traditional fishing rights of Tamil Nadu fishers in the Palk Bay,” Stalin wrote, emphasizing the critical importance of resolving these long-standing grievances.

Release of Detained Fishermen and Boats

The Chief Minister also highlighted the urgent need for the repatriation of 76 fishermen and 242 fishing boats currently held in Sri Lankan custody. He noted that a 2018 amendment to the Sri Lankan Fisheries Act has led to the nationalization of seized Indian fishing vessels, causing severe financial hardship and threatening the livelihoods of affected communities.

Reviving Bilateral Mechanisms

Stalin stressed that the Joint Working Group (JWG) on Fisheries, established to address such bilateral concerns, has not been convened regularly. He urged the Prime Minister to revive this platform, enabling structured dialogue to ensure the protection of fishermen and their assets.

Recurring Harassment and Security Concerns

Since 2021, Tamil Nadu fishermen have faced repeated harassment, attacks, and apprehensions. Stalin’s letter cited 1,482 fishermen and 198 fishing boats apprehended in 106 separate incidents, causing economic loss and distress to coastal communities.

He also raised concerns over attacks, theft of fishing equipment, and losses of catch at sea, often allegedly by Sri Lankan nationals. Stalin emphasized the need for enhanced bilateral security coordination and sustained diplomatic engagement to safeguard the fishing community.

“Fishermen in Tamil Nadu continue to face significant hardships due to recurring incidents at sea. Immediate action is essential to secure their livelihoods and restore confidence in traditional fishing practices,” Stalin added.