T.N. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin requests Jaishankar to secure release of fishermen from Sri Lankan custody

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Sunday wrote to Union Minister for External Affairs S. Jaishankar, requesting him to take appropriate diplomatic steps to secure the release of the fishermen and their fishing vessels apprehended by the Sri Lankan authorities.

In the early hours of July 13, seven fishermen from Rameswaram were arrested by the Sri Lankan authorities. On the same day, in a separate incident, another mechanised boat was reported to have been struck by a Sri Lankan naval vessel, causing significant damage to its stern, he said.

“These recurring incidents are deeply alarming. They not only pose a grave threat to the safety and livelihoods of our fishermen but also subject their families to prolonged economic hardship and emotional distress,” Mr. Stalin contended.

At present, 232 Tamil Nadu fishing boats and 50 fishermen are still being held by Sri Lankan authorities, he said.

“I further request that urgent and effective steps be taken to secure the release of all detained fishermen and their fishing boats at the earliest,” he added.