Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

Chennai, Jun 29: In the early hours of Sunday, eight Indian fishermen from Tamil Nadu were apprehended by the Sri Lankan Navy on allegations of trespassing into the island nation's territorial waters. The arrest took place near Delft Island, and the boat used by the fishermen was also seized.

The group had departed from Rameswaram late Saturday night before being intercepted by a Sri Lankan naval patrol for allegedly crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL). Officials from the Tamil Nadu Fisheries Department confirmed the arrest and said the fishermen were accused of illegal fishing activity within Sri Lanka’s exclusive economic zone.

This incident marks yet another chapter in the ongoing maritime conflict between the two nations, particularly affecting coastal communities in southern India. Tamil Nadu’s fishermen, especially those from districts like Ramanathapuram and Pudukottai, have frequently found themselves at odds with Sri Lankan naval forces in recent years. Dozens have been detained, with their boats confiscated, igniting repeated diplomatic friction.

Local fishermen argue that dwindling fish populations on the Indian side and ambiguous maritime boundaries have compelled them to venture closer to Sri Lankan waters. Many also insist that traditional fishing zones, historically accessed by Indian fishermen, were incorporated into Sri Lanka’s territory following boundary pacts signed decades ago — agreements they feel have undermined their livelihoods.

In response to the latest arrest, fishermen’s unions in Rameswaram have demanded urgent intervention from the Indian government. They have urged the Ministry of External Affairs to secure the immediate release of the detained fishermen and their vessel, threatening to launch widespread protests if no swift action is taken.

The Tamil Nadu government has reiterated its appeal to the Centre, calling for a long-term resolution to what has become a chronic flashpoint in India–Sri Lanka relations. Indian authorities are expected to raise the matter diplomatically, as in previous cases.

As of now, the detained fishermen are likely to be presented before a magistrate in Sri Lanka, with a potential remand into judicial custody while investigations proceed.