Stalin Urges Centre's Urgent Action as Sri Lanka Detains Tamil Nadu Fishermen Again

Chief Minister M K Stalin has requested the Centre's intervention following the recent arrest of ten Tamil Nadu fishermen by Sri Lanka. In his appeal to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Stalin emphasized the need to release 47 fishermen and 166 fishing boats currently detained by Sri Lankan authorities.

In a renewed distress call, Chief Minister M K Stalin on Tuesday flagged the detention of ten more Tamil Nadu fishermen by Sri Lankan authorities, seeking prompt intervention from the Centre. The chief minister urged for immediate measures to secure the release of a total of 47 fishermen and 166 fishing boats currently held in Sri Lanka's custody.

Highlighting the frequency of such incidents, Stalin wrote to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. He expressed his anguish over the June 25, 2024, arrest of ten fishermen from Nagapattinam, along with their mechanized fishing boat. This year alone, the Sri Lankan Navy has apprehended 203 fishermen and seized 27 boats, escalating insecurities within the Tamil Nadu fishing community.

'Therefore, I earnestly request your immediate intervention to convene the Joint Working Group to prevent further arrests and secure the release of all 47 fishermen and 166 fishing boats currently in the custody of Sri Lankan authorities,' Stalin implored.