India raise concerns of continuing arrests of Tamil Nadu fishermen & seizure of their boats in Sri Lanka

An Indian bottom trawler detained at a fisheries jetty in Jaffna after seized by authorities. Pix:Northeastern Monitor

A high-level Indian delegation raised concerns about the increase in detention of Indian fishermen and their boats in Sri Lankan custody, including the imposition of long sentences and heavy fines. 

Taking part in the 6th meeting of the Joint Working Group on Fisheries held today in Colombo, the Indian side also stressed the need to uphold established understandings and modalities on issues related to fishermen, according to a statement issued by Indian High Commission in Colombo. 

The Indian delegation was led by Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary, Department of Fisheries, Government of India and included senior officials from the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying; Ministry of External Affairs; Government of Tamil Nadu; Navy; Coast Guard; Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute and High Commission of India in Colombo.

The Sri Lankan delegation was led by Mr. M.P.N.M. Wickramasinghe, Secretary, Ministry of Fisheries, Government of Sri Lanka and included senior officials from the Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry, Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Navy, Coast Guard and the Department of the Attorney General.

 The delegations undertook a comprehensive review of all relevant issues pertaining to fishermen and the fisheries sector and both sides agreed that the highest priority should be accorded to address the various issues faced by fishermen in a humanitarian manner as they pertain to livelihood concerns on both sides. 

They also agreed that only a humane, constructive and cooperative approach can create a durable basis for addressing the issues faced by fishermen on both sides, the statement read. 

“Highlighting the ongoing cooperation between the Indian Naval & Coast Guard authorities and their Sri Lankan counterparts, both sides agreed to continue enhanced cooperation, including on surveillance and patrolling, maintaining regular contacts through their hotline, and all other operational matters,” the statement said.

The Indian side drew attention to the recent tragic incidents at sea leading to unfortunate injuries and loss of lives, and strongly reiterated that the use of force should be avoided under all circumstances.

 The Indian side also reiterated its request to schedule the meeting of Fishermen Associations between the two countries at the earliest to further discuss the issues related to fishermen. The two sides agreed to meet regularly and continue to have comprehensive discussions on the issues related to fishermen for finding a mutually acceptable and long lasting solution. (Northeastern Monitor/Oct 29/2024)