Rameswaram, March 26: The Sri Lankan Navy arrested seven fishermen from Rameswaram early Thursday, accusing them of illegal fishing in the Palk Bay, which lies between Tamil Nadu and Jaffna district in Sri Lanka. During the operation, two mechanized fishing trawlers were also seized.
According to officials from the Fisheries Department, a total of 365 fishing tokens were issued from the Rameswaram Fish Landing Center on Wednesday. The arrested fishermen were on two boats near Nedunthivu Island when they were intercepted by the Sri Lankan Navy.
Reports indicate that the seized trawlers belong to fishermen Simson and Sasikumar. After initial questioning at sea, the fishermen were taken to a Sri Lankan naval port, where further legal action will be initiated against them.
Following this incident, anger spread among fishermen in the Thangachimadam area of Ramanathapuram district. A large number of fishermen gathered near the statue of Karl Marx to protest. The demonstrators chanted slogans against the Sri Lankan government, demanding the immediate release of the fishermen and their boats.
Fishermen’s organizations have also appealed to the central government for intervention. They argue that repeated arrests are severely impacting the livelihoods of local communities.
An emergency meeting of fishermen’s representatives has been called for Thursday at 4 PM to discuss further strategies. Fisherman leader Jesu Raja stated that this issue has persisted for the last 40 years, with fishing being the primary livelihood for the local population. He noted that nearly 90 percent of families depend on this activity, and without a permanent solution, their existence could be at risk.
He also demanded the assurance of traditional fishing rights in the Palk Bay, emphasizing that local fishermen have been operating in this area for a long time.
Another fisherman, Antony, questioned why such arrests continue when India considers Sri Lanka a friendly nation. He mentioned that the seizure of boats and heavy fines have plunged many families into debt, leaving several fishermen unemployed.
Antony highlighted that the cost of a mechanized trawler is approximately 4 million rupees, and since 2018, over 180 boats have been confiscated, exacerbating the crisis.
–
VKU/VC
My name is Narendra Jijhontiya. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
Leave a Comment