Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, April 6: In a move signaling a positive step towards resolving the long-standing fishermen issue, Sri Lanka on Sunday released 14 Indian fishermen. This gesture of goodwill comes a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi advocated for a "humane approach" to the matter during discussions with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
The contentious issue of fishermen's livelihoods was a prominent point of discussion during the bilateral talks held on Saturday between the two leaders. Sources familiar with the matter confirmed the release of the 14 Indian fishermen as a special gesture, highlighting the sensitivity of the issue in India-Sri Lanka relations.
The Palk Strait, a narrow waterway separating Tamil Nadu from Sri Lanka, has been a recurring site of alleged incidents involving the Sri Lankan Navy and Indian fishermen. Past reports have often cited the use of force against Indian fishermen by Sri Lankan personnel.
In his post-talks media briefing, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the need for a compassionate resolution. "We also discussed issues related to fishermen's livelihood. We agreed that we should proceed with a humane approach in this matter," Modi stated after his meeting with President Dissanayake. He further stressed the importance of the "immediate release of the fishermen and their boats."
Echoing this sentiment, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, during a media briefing on Saturday, noted that the fishermen issue was discussed in "considerable detail" by both sides. He conveyed the Prime Minister's emphasis on adopting a "humanitarian and constructive approach" to cooperation on these issues, recognizing their direct impact on the livelihoods of fishermen on both the Indian and Sri Lankan sides of the Palk Bay.
Misri further quoted the Prime Minister as suggesting a reconsideration of certain actions taken recently, underscoring the daily challenges faced by the fishing communities. Both India and Sri Lanka also agreed on the need to intensify institutional discussions aimed at finding a lasting solution.
The Foreign Secretary indicated that both nations are currently in communication regarding the possibility of convening the next round of talks between the fishermen's associations of Sri Lanka and India.
Prime Minister Modi concluded his three-day visit to Sri Lanka on Sunday, leaving behind a positive development in a long-standing and sensitive bilateral issue.