TN seeks Centre’s help to get back boats in SL

Referring to a similar exercise in 2014, Rao said that 158 boats were then seized by the island nation following which the CM repeatedly wrote to the PM to initiate action for their release. The State assembly also passed a resolution on the issue on December 5, 2014. The impounded boats were released on February 12, 13 and 16 following the affected boat owners giving power of attorney to the Rameswaram fisheries AD and the local fisheries inspector. The Tamil Nadu government then filed motions in the Sri Lankan courts to advance the court hearings and for the early release of the seized boats. Stating that the state government bore all expenses for the exercises, the letter added that 80 boats were salvaged by two fishermen teams. 

Finally 64 boats were salvaged and returned to India in March and April 2015. Referring to the current scenario, he said 16 boats damaged beyond repair sank in Lankan waters, while another two sank while fishing in traditional waters. Stating that the CM had emphasised that released boats should be returned to fishermen in good condition for them to resume their work, the letter added that despite repeated reminders the central government was yet to accept payment for the loss suffered by the fishermen. Calling on the central government to impress upon the island nation the necessity for the early release of the 105 boats, the letter reiterated the demand for payment of necessary assistance to the 18 boat owners who were pushed to penury due to the loss of boats as each cost Rs.25 lakhs.