CM Stalin Urges Immediate Release of Arrested Indian Fishermen from Sri Lankan Detention

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin has requested External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to take immediate and diplomatic action for the release of 14 fishermen arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy. Highlighting increasing incidents of apprehension, Stalin stressed the need to waive hefty penalties imposed by Sri Lankan courts and revive the Joint Working Group on fishing issues.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin has urgently called on External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar for the immediate release of 14 fishermen detained by the Sri Lankan Navy. In a letter to Jaishankar, Stalin highlighted the alarming rise in arrests, noting 350 fishermen and 49 boats seized this year, the highest in six years.

The Chief Minister emphasized the crippling penalties imposed on the fishermen by Sri Lankan courts, urging the Centre to secure their waiver. He pointed out that such hefty fines inevitably lead to prolonged incarceration and distress for the fishermen's families.

Stalin also urged for a revival of the Joint Working Group to address these issues comprehensively, signaling the need for immediate diplomatic action.

(With inputs from agencies.)