Tamil Nadu Fishermen Launch Indefinite Strike Over Arrests by Sri Lankan Navy

Fishermen Protest Following Arrests

In Chennai, the fishing community in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, has initiated an indefinite strike following the arrest of seven fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy. These fishermen were accused of breaching the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) while engaged in fishing activities.

The situation escalated when the fishermen, who were operating from Rameswaram, were reportedly intercepted by Sri Lankan naval forces at sea. Their fishing vessel was also confiscated during this incident.

After their arrest, the fishermen were presented in front of the Mannar Court in Sri Lanka on Sunday, where they were remanded in custody until August 21 and subsequently transferred to Vavuniya Prison.

This incident prompted an urgent meeting among various fishermen’s associations in the Rameswaram harbor area.

During this gathering, a resolution was adopted demanding the immediate release of the detained fishermen and the return of their fishing boat.

The associations called on both state and central governments to take swift diplomatic measures to facilitate their release and prevent future occurrences.

As part of their protest, Rameswaram fishermen commenced an indefinite strike on Monday, halting all fishing activities.

Currently, over 700 mechanized fishing boats remain docked at the shore due to the strike. Leaders within the fishing community emphasized that this action is crucial to convey a strong message to both Indian and Sri Lankan authorities regarding the ongoing arrests, which have significantly impacted their livelihoods.

One association leader expressed, "We cannot continue like this, not knowing when one of us will be taken away. We need a lasting solution."

The strike has effectively paralyzed the local fishing economy, affecting more than 10,000 individuals, including those directly involved in fishing and those in related trades such as auctioning, net making, boat repairs, and fish transportation.

Fishermen's representatives estimate that the daily economic losses from the strike amount to several crores of rupees, given that Rameswaram is a key fishing hub in Tamil Nadu.

They have warned that the strike will persist until tangible actions are taken to ensure the release of the arrested fishermen and to guarantee their safety while fishing in Indian waters.

The issue of Tamil Nadu fishermen being arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy for alleged violations of maritime boundaries has been a recurring problem for years, with increasing calls for more robust diplomatic interventions following each incident.