Daijiworld Media Network - Colombo

Colombo, Apr 6: In a goodwill gesture, Sri Lanka on Sunday released at least 11 Indian fishermen, just a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for a "humane approach" to resolving the long-standing fishermen issue during his talks with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

The matter featured prominently in the high-level bilateral talks held in New Delhi on Saturday, where both leaders acknowledged the sensitivities involved, especially concerning the livelihoods of fishermen from both nations.

“We also discussed issues related to fishermen's livelihood. We agreed that we should proceed with a humane approach in this matter,” PM Modi said in his media statement, adding that both sides emphasised the immediate release of the fishermen and their boats.

Sources said the release of 11 Indian fishermen was carried out as a “special gesture” by the Sri Lankan government following the discussion.

The fishermen issue has often strained ties between the two neighbours, with recurring reports of the Sri Lankan Navy apprehending or allegedly using force against Indian fishermen crossing into Lankan waters in the Palk Strait—a narrow stretch of sea separating Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka.

Foreign secretary Vikram Misri said the matter was discussed in “considerable detail” during the meeting. “The prime minister emphasised that certain recent actions could be reconsidered, as these are daily livelihood issues for the fishermen,” Misri stated.

He added that both countries were exploring the possibility of convening the next round of the India-Sri Lanka Fishermen’s Association talks and would intensify institutional discussions to arrive at a long-term resolution.