Madras High Court Seeks State Response on Increased Compensation for Fishermen During Ban

The Madras High Court's Madurai Bench has asked the Tamil Nadu government to provide a counter-affidavit regarding a PIL pushing for increased compensation for fishermen during the statutory fishing bans. Advocate G Thirumurugan argues that current aid is insufficient to support fishermen's basic needs, proposing a rise to Rs 20,000 monthly relief.

The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has called upon the Tamil Nadu government to submit a counter-affidavit in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that demands higher compensation for fishermen during fishing ban periods. The PIL was filed by G Thirumurugan, an advocate and State Coordinator of the fishermen's wing of the Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK).

The petition highlights the two separate fishing bans imposed along the Tamil Nadu coastline for breeding purposes, and notes the substantial contribution of the fishing industry to both the state and national economy. Thirumurugan argues that the current relief of Rs 8,000 for the 61-day ban period fails to suffice the basic needs of fishermen's families.

He urges the court to mandate a monthly compensation of Rs 20,000 per family during the ban, emphasizing that other coastal states offer more generous support. The case, heard by a Division Bench including Justices N Sathish Kumar and M Jothiraman, has been adjourned pending further government response.