Rameswaram: Fishermen from Rameswaram staged a protest near the local bus stand on Friday, urging the Union government to organize a high-level dialogue between Indian and Sri Lankan fishing communities. The demonstration followed the recent detention of 16 Indian fishermen and the confiscation of two mechanized boats by Sri Lankan authorities on October 23.
Expressing growing frustration over repeated arrests, fishermen’s associations voiced concern about their safety, accusing Sri Lankan officials of heavy-handed treatment. “The Indian government must act swiftly and decisively. Staying silent makes us feel abandoned as citizens,” said Sesu Raja, a fishermen leader, reflecting the community’s mounting anger.
He further criticized the pattern of frequent arrests, hefty fines, and harsh penalties imposed by Sri Lanka. “Punishments like six-month or two-year jail terms for repeat offenders have become commonplace. These actions severely disrupt the livelihood of fishermen who are just trying to earn daily wages. Many have fallen into deep depression after being imprisoned, leaving their families in dire straits.”
In the past, diplomatic efforts by the Indian government had secured the release of detained fishermen, but the situation has worsened since June, when Sri Lanka intensified arrests following the annual fishing ban. Confiscated boats are now being auctioned off, adding to the financial strain on Indian fishermen.
With fishing in the Palk Bay becoming increasingly perilous, fishermen leaders have called for urgent intervention. “We have fished in these waters for generations, and our right to fish near Katchatheevu cannot be taken away,” Raja asserted.
Adding to their woes is the growing use of high-powered Chinese engines on some mechanized boats, which has escalated tensions. “These engines have only complicated matters, making the situation even more challenging for us,” explained Emerit, another fishermen representative.
The community has urged the Tamil Nadu government to push the Union government for a diplomatic solution. They insist that direct dialogue between fishermen from both countries is essential to reaching a sustainable resolution. “If governments allow fishermen to negotiate directly, we can find common ground and end these disputes,” Raja said.
The protesting fishermen warned that if the government fails to respond meaningfully, they would be compelled to escalate their agitation. “We need action, not promises. Without a resolution, our livelihoods and future remain at risk,” they cautioned.
