February, New Delhi: Indian fishermen were attacked and captured as well as assaulted by Sri Lankan Navy personnel on February 23. As soon as the information was received, the Ministry of External Affairs swung into action and they were brought back safely. It may be noted that six fishermen from Tharangambadi and Mayiladuthurai districts of Tamil Nadu went into the sea for fishing from Tharangambadi fishing hamlet on February 21. But, as they were engaged in fishing in traditional marine waters, they were attacked by Sri Lankan Navy personnel at 4:30 am on February 23. Five fishermen injured in the attack have been admitted to the Tharangambadi government hospital for treatment. Union Minister of State for Fisheries, L. Murugan on Monday said that he had visited Sri Lanka last week and held talks with the Indian fishermen who were attacked by Sri Lankan Navy personnel on February 23.
The High Commission of India in Sri Lanka tweeted, “High Commission has strongly taken up the recent attacks on #Indian fishermen with #SriLankan authorities. It has also asked the Goverment of #SriLanka to investigate the matter and ensure that use of force and violence in any form are not resorted to against the fishermen.”
The Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka further said that the fishermen’s issues are humanitarian and related to their livelihood. Thus, India hopes to solve such matters through bilateral mechanisms and diplomatic channels so that Indian fishermen do not face such harassment at the hands of Sri Lankan authorities.