Chennai, 23 February (H.S.) : The recent apprehension of 12 Indian fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy has ignited a wave of sharp criticism against the Union Government for its perceived failure to provide a permanent solution to the long-standing maritime conflict.

On Sunday night, a mechanized fishing boat from Rameswaram, which had ventured into the sea from the Pamban Fish Landing Centre, was intercepted by Sri Lankan authorities in the Gulf of Mannar. This latest incident has brought the total number of Tamil Nadu fishermen currently in Sri Lankan custody to 116, along with 259 fishing boats that remain seized. The recurring nature of these arrests has left the coastal fishing communities in a state of constant fear and economic instability.

Political leaders and fishing associations in Tamil Nadu have expressed deep frustration over the central government's handling of the crisis. Critics argue that despite repeated appeals from the state government, the diplomatic efforts by the Centre have not yielded the desired results in preventing the harassment of Indian citizens in international or contested waters.

Local representatives from Ramanathapuram pointed out that the livelihood of thousands of families is being systematically destroyed as expensive mechanized boats are left to rot in Sri Lankan ports. They have called for a more assertive diplomatic stance and a clear policy to protect the traditional fishing rights of the Pamban and Rameswaram communities.

Latest updates from the ground indicate that the fishing community in Pamban is planning a series of protests to draw national attention to their plight. While Chief Minister MK Stalin has urged the External Affairs Ministry for immediate intervention, the local sentiment remains highly volatile.

Fishermen leaders emphasized that the lack of a concrete maritime agreement or a designated buffer zone in the Palk Bay area continues to make them vulnerable to naval action.

They are demanding not only the immediate repatriation of the 12 recently detained individuals but also a high-level committee to resolve the territorial disputes and ensure the safety of Indian fishermen venturing into the sea.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary