Opposition MPs protested in Parliament against the Sri Lankan Navy’s arrests of Tamil fishermen, demanding urgent government action. Over 97 Indian fishermen are imprisoned in Sri Lanka, with 210 boats seized. The protest received support from various political parties, emphasizing the need for a diplomatic resolution to this ongoing issue.
On Friday, Opposition Members of Parliament, led by the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), protested in the Parliament complex against the repeated arrests of Tamil fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy. They called for immediate intervention from the Indian government. DMK MP Kanimozhi highlighted that over 97 Indian fishermen remain imprisoned in Sri Lanka, with 210 fishing boats confiscated, stressing the urgent need for government action.
The protest garnered support from Congress, Left parties, Trinamool Congress (TMC), and CPI(ML) Liberation members, all demanding a comprehensive resolution to the ongoing issue affecting Tamil fisherfolk. Demonstrators displayed placards reading, “Justice For Tamil Fishermen” and “Tamil Nadu Fishermen Are Indians.” They brought these concerns to the Lok Sabha, asking the Central Government for prompt intervention.
DMK MP Tiruchi Siva emphasized that this matter transcends regional significance, stating, “They are Tamil fishermen, but above all, they are Indians. For years, they have been tortured, harassed, and even killed, yet the government has failed to take firm action.” He also noted that the Sri Lankan Navy’s actions had become increasingly aggressive, instilling fear in fishermen and affecting their livelihoods.
Congress MP Manickam Tagore echoed similar sentiments, urging the Indian government to engage in discussions with Sri Lanka to cease the detainment of Indian fishermen and the seizure of their vessels. Kanimozhi reiterated that Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has persistently communicated with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, seeking a permanent resolution to the issue.
The longstanding problem between Tamil fisherfolk and the Sri Lankan Navy has created tension in India-Sri Lanka relations, with the Navy alleging that Indian fishermen intrude into Sri Lanka’s territorial waters in the Palk Strait. Reports show that over 550 Indian fishermen have been arrested in just 2024, underlining the urgency for diplomatic resolutions. Recently, an additional 10 Indian fishermen were apprehended, further exacerbating the issue.
The recurring arrests of Indian fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy have been a contentious issue affecting India-Sri Lanka relations, particularly concerning Tamil Nadu’s fisherfolk. The Sri Lankan authorities frequently accuse Indian fishermen of entering their territorial waters, leading to detentions and allegations of harassment. These incidents have persisted for many years, prompting calls for action from Indian political leaders to address and resolve the situation diplomatically.
The protest by Opposition MPs underscores the urgency of the situation concerning the repeated arrests of Tamil fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy. With many fishermen imprisoned and boats seized, there is a critical need for the Indian government to act decisively and engage in diplomatic discussions to protect the rights and livelihoods of its citizens. Growing tensions and the humanitarian aspect of this issue require immediate attention to prevent further escalation.
Original Source: www.indiatoday.in
