Following the recent death of a fisherman in Tamil Nadu, BJP President K. Annamalai has commented on the ongoing issues facing Indian fishermen. He highlighted two major conflict areas: Gujarat and Tamil Nadu. Annamalai noted that fishermen from Gujarat are frequently arrested by Pakistan, while Tamil Nadu has seen tensions particularly after the DMK government handed over Kachathivu Island to Sri Lanka.
Annamalai pointed out that before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration, shootings in the high seas were a common threat, with Indian fishermen often killed by the Sri Lankan Navy. However, he stated that such incidents ceased after Modi came to power in 2014.
Despite this, Annamalai reported that 2024 has seen a rise in issues, with 273 Tamil fishermen arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy. Of these, 69 are in Sri Lankan jails, including 61 in judicial custody and 8 with sentences. This matter was promptly raised with the External Affairs Minister, who assured a swift response.
In response, a 2+2 Joint Working Group will be established between India and Sri Lanka. This group, including representatives from the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Fisheries, will address the issue of 170 Tamil fishing boats seized by the Sri Lankan Navy. The Indian government has also acknowledged and is addressing the concerns of the fishermen.