Chennai/New Delhi, January 28, 2025: The Sri Lankan Navy has once again sparked controversy by arresting 13 fishermen from Tamil Nadu and Karaikal, alleging that they trespassed into Sri Lankan waters. The incident, which took place on Monday night near Delft Island, escalated as reports suggest that the Sri Lankan Navy fired at the fishermen, leaving two seriously injured and three others with minor wounds.
This incident has led to a strong diplomatic protest from India, raising concerns over the safety of Indian fishermen operating in the region. The situation has once again put a spotlight on the long-standing fishing dispute between India and Sri Lanka, which has led to multiple arrests, tensions, and diplomatic interventions over the years.
The Arrest and Allegations
The arrested fishermen were on board a Karaikal-based fishing vessel when they were intercepted by Sri Lankan naval forces. Sri Lankan authorities claim that the fishermen were illegally fishing in their waters, an ongoing issue that has led to frequent clashes between Indian fishing communities and Sri Lankan enforcement agencies.
However, reports from some local sources suggest that force was used during the operation. The injured fishermen were rushed to Jaffna Teaching Hospital, where they are receiving treatment.
Meanwhile, Indian consulate officials in Jaffna visited the injured and assured them of all possible assistance. The remaining arrested fishermen have been taken into custody by Sri Lankan authorities, and legal proceedings are expected to follow.
India’s Strong Diplomatic Protest
Reacting swiftly, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) summoned the Sri Lankan Acting High Commissioner in New Delhi to lodge a formal diplomatic protest. The Indian High Commission in Colombo also took up the matter with the Sri Lankan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, demanding an explanation and accountability for the incident.
India’s official stance on the issue is clear:
- The use of force against unarmed fishermen is unacceptable.
- Sri Lanka must follow existing agreements regarding fishing rights.
- A humanitarian approach is necessary to protect fishermen’s livelihoods.
In an official statement, a spokesperson from India’s Foreign Ministry emphasized that such actions only strain the ties between the two nations and that fishermen should not be treated as criminals but as people simply trying to earn a living.
Repeated Incidents Raise Concerns
This is not the first time Indian fishermen have been arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy. Just a day prior, 34 Indian fishermen were arrested and three trawlers were seized in two separate incidents. The repeated arrests and now the use of force have led to growing concern and outrage among fishing communities in Tamil Nadu and Karaikal.
Fishermen’s associations have strongly condemned the attack, urging the Indian government to take a tougher stand against Sri Lanka and demand the release of all arrested fishermen immediately.
The Root of the Dispute
The maritime boundary between India and Sri Lanka, particularly in the Palk Strait and Delft Island, has been a long-standing issue. While Sri Lanka has strict anti-poaching laws, Indian fishermen often unknowingly cross maritime borders due to a lack of clear demarcation or declining fish populations on their side.
The issue stems from the Katchatheevu Agreement, where India handed over Katchatheevu Island to Sri Lanka in 1974. While Indian fishermen were allowed to fish around the island, over the years, Sri Lanka has enforced stricter restrictions, often leading to arrests.
What Happens Next?
The Indian government is actively engaging with Sri Lanka to resolve the issue, with diplomatic talks expected to take place soon. Meanwhile, protests are gaining momentum in Tamil Nadu, with demands for:
- Immediate release of all Indian fishermen in Sri Lankan custody
- A permanent agreement ensuring fishermen’s rights and safety
- Stronger government intervention to prevent further incidents
As tensions continue to rise, the pressure is mounting on both governments to find a lasting solution to this recurring conflict.
With India standing firm on the protection of its fishermen and Sri Lanka enforcing its maritime laws, a diplomatic dialogue is crucial to prevent further escalation and loss of innocent lives at sea.
