Daijiworld Media Network - Chennai

Chennai, Feb 23: Tensions flared along the Palk Strait on Monday after the Sri Lankan Navy arrested 12 fishermen from Pamban, Tamil Nadu, and impounded their mechanised trawler for allegedly fishing in Sri Lankan waters.

Officials from the Tamil Nadu Fisheries Department reported that the fishermen, who set out to sea on Sunday on a vessel owned by David, a resident of Pamban near Rameswaram, were intercepted between Katchatheevu and Mannar. Families raised alarms when the fishermen did not return by Monday noon.

The detained crew was taken to the naval port at Talaimannar for questioning. Local fishermen associations condemned the arrests and urged the Union government to intervene, citing repeated detentions that threaten livelihoods and create instability in coastal communities.

Fishermen leader Jesu Raja expressed deep concern, recalling that just last week, 22 Indian fishermen were arrested and four trawlers were seized. He noted the timing is especially distressing as the annual St. Antony’s Church festival at Katchatheevu approaches, an event traditionally attended by fisherfolk from both sides.

Raja added that such recurring arrests, including last year before the festival, have sown uncertainty among fishermen regarding participation in religious events.

Legal efforts to secure relief have faced hurdles. A recent Sri Lankan court order released six impounded trawlers, but around 10 Rameswaram fishermen seeking to retrieve their vessels were told boat owners could face poaching charges, forcing them to return home. Allegedly, local lawyers in Sri Lanka have been reluctant to represent Indian fishermen, complicating legal recourse.

Fishermen leaders emphasised that direct intervention by the Indian government and support from the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka is essential to resolve the recurring maritime dispute and ensure the safety and livelihood of coastal communities.