CM MK Stalin Urges Release of Fishermen Arrested by Sri Lankan Navy

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has written to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, urging immediate action to secure the release of fishermen arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy. In his letter, Stalin highlighted the recent apprehension of a mechanised fishing boat and ten fishermen from Nagapattinam on June 25, 2024.

Stalin, leader of the Dravida Munetra Kazhgam (DMK), expressed concern over the increasing number of arrests this year, with 203 fishermen and 27 fishing boats detained by Sri Lankan authorities. He called for Jaishankar’s intervention to convene the Joint Working Group, aiming to prevent further arrests and facilitate the release of 47 fishermen and 166 fishing boats currently in custody.

This plea follows a previous letter on June 18, where Stalin informed Jaishankar about the apprehension of four fishermen. The situation escalated recently when 22 fishermen were detained near Nandutheevu in Sri Lankan waters, as reported by the Rameswaram Fisherman Association.

Stalin’s letter underscores the urgency of diplomatic efforts to resolve the ongoing issue and protect the livelihoods of Tamil Nadu’s fishing community.

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