The Sri Lankan Navy has once again detained 11 Tamil Nadu fishermen and moved them to the Kangesanthurai Naval camp for further investigation. The fishermen were apprehended while fishing on a single boat in the Bay of Bengal, near the Tamil Nadu coast. According to the Rameswaram Fishermen Association, the detention occurred late Wednesday night, and the fishermen are now being interrogated by Sri Lankan authorities.

Recent Arrests of Tamil Nadu Fishermen

This incident follows the detention of 13 Tamil Nadu fishermen who were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy on March 20, 2025, for allegedly crossing the approved maritime boundaries. Those fishermen, who had been detained since February 26, were released after diplomatic discussions between the Indian Embassy in Colombo and Sri Lankan authorities.

After spending nearly a month in detention, these fishermen were presented before the Mallakam court in Sri Lanka, which ordered their release on March 12. Following the court’s decision, arrangements were made to facilitate their return to India, including the provision of flight tickets from Colombo to Chennai and temporary passports issued by the Indian Embassy. Upon their arrival in India, the fishermen were received by Karaikal officials and safely transported to their respective hometowns.

Details of the Latest Detention

The 11 fishermen detained on March 27 were fishing in the Bay of Bengal when they were apprehended by the Sri Lankan Navy. They have been taken to the Kangesanthurai Naval camp for further questioning. This detention comes amid growing concerns over the repeated arrests of Indian fishermen by Sri Lankan authorities, which have strained relations between the two nations.

Past Incidents and Concerns Raised

On March 18, 2025, another group of three Tamil Nadu fishermen was apprehended by the Sri Lankan Navy near Delft Island in the Palk Bay Sea area. These fishermen, identified as A Shankar (53), M Arjunan (35), and S Murugesan (49), had only received their fishing permits a day earlier on March 17. Despite this, they were informed by the Sri Lankan Navy that they had crossed the maritime boundary, leading to their detention.

The captured boat, IND-TN-10-MM-496, belonged to Thangachimadam Kennedy, and authorities have been investigating the circumstances of the detention.

CM MK Stalin's Concern and Appeal to the Centre

The increase in detentions has prompted Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin to express serious concern over the rising number of Indian fishermen being captured by the Sri Lankan Navy. On February 23, 2025, CM Stalin urged the Central Government to convene a Joint Working Group (JWG) to discuss and find a permanent solution to the ongoing issue.

Stalin highlighted that these frequent detentions disrupt the livelihood of Tamil Nadu fishermen, who depend on fishing in the Palk Bay region for their sustenance. He emphasized the urgency of diplomatic intervention to protect the rights and safety of Indian fishermen operating near the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL).

Impact on Fishermen’s Livelihoods

The continued detention of Indian fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy has led to growing uncertainty and fear among the fishing community in Tamil Nadu. Many fishermen depend heavily on these waters for their livelihood, and repeated arrests create financial instability and emotional distress. Families of detained fishermen often have to endure long waits and legal uncertainties before their loved ones are released and returned to India.

Diplomatic Discussions and Resolution Efforts

The Indian Government has been actively working through diplomatic channels to ensure the safe return of detained fishermen and prevent further incidents. The Joint Working Group on Fisheries (JWG), established by India and Sri Lanka, has been the primary platform for addressing these concerns. However, despite regular discussions, incidents of fishermen being arrested for crossing maritime boundaries continue to occur, highlighting the need for a comprehensive and long-term solution.

Way Forward: Need for a Permanent Resolution

The Joint Working Group (JWG) needs to address the core issues surrounding the maritime boundaries and develop clear guidelines to prevent future detentions. Establishing a sustainable framework that protects the rights of Indian fishermen while respecting international maritime laws is essential. Diplomatic talks must also consider the traditional fishing rights of Tamil Nadu fishermen, who have historically relied on these waters for generations.

Conclusion

The detention of 11 more Tamil Nadu fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy has once again highlighted the ongoing tensions surrounding maritime boundaries and the impact on Indian fishermen. As diplomatic efforts continue to secure their release, the need for a permanent resolution to protect fishermen’s livelihoods remains critical. With CM MK Stalin advocating for central intervention, it is imperative for the Indian Government to intensify its efforts and prevent further incidents.

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