Stalin asks PM to initiate bilateral talks after Sri Lanka arrests more fishermen

In yet another incident, 12 fishermen have been apprehended by Sri Lanka, Stalin said. “Such incidents are happening with alarming regularity, causing deep distress to the people of Tamil Nadu,” the CM said in a letter to the Prime Minister.

The fishermen had ventured out for fishing from Rameswaram base in two mechanised fishing boats. They were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy in the early hours of Sunday and taken to Thalai Mannar. This is the third such incident in two weeks and 41 fishermen and six fishing boats are in the custody of the Sri Lankan Navy, he noted.

Such arrests and harassment have caused a sense of insecurity in the fishermen community of state, particularly in Palk Bay area and have adversely affected their livelihoods. It is extremely vital to find a lasting solution to this long-pending issue through the collaborative efforts of the union and state governments, Stalin said.

As a preliminary step, consultations may be initiated to convene bilateral talks, he urged. “As the COVID situation has eased, I request you to press for the resumption of deliberations through the Joint Working Group Meeting (JWG) immediately.”

“Further, talks between the fishermen of the two countries may also be facilitated to ease the tension in the area. I also urge you to take immediate steps to expedite the release of 41 fishermen from Tamil Nadu.”