Sri Lankan Navy Apprehends Eight Indian Fishermen Off Rameswaram Coast

Eight Indian fishermen from Rameswaram were apprehended by the Sri Lankan Navy while out at sea. This incident highlights ongoing tensions and frequent arrests of Tamil Nadu fishermen by Sri Lanka, with over 350 arrests this year. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin previously urged action on this issue.

Eight fishermen from Rameswaram were detained by the Sri Lankan Navy on Tuesday while fishing off the coast, according to the Rameswaram Assistant Director of Fisheries. These fishermen were part of a larger group comprising 430 mechanized boats.

CR Senthilvel, Tamil Nadu Secretary of the AITUC Fishing Workers' Association, confirmed the arrest of eight fishermen. He also highlighted ongoing issues, noting that more than 350 fishermen have been apprehended this year and two have lost their lives. 'Tamil Nadu fishermen are being continually targeted by the Sri Lankan Navy. There have been numerous boat attacks and a growing sense of hopelessness among the fishermen,' Senthilvel stated.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin recently addressed a letter to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, urging for the release and repatriation of the detained fishermen. Stalin pointed out that despite previous appeals and a recent delegation visit, significant relief has yet to be achieved on this matter.

(With inputs from agencies.)