In a fresh incident escalating tension in the Palk Bay region, 22 Tamil Nadu fishermen from Rameswaram and Mandapam were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy on charges of crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line while fishing.
According to fisheries department sources, the fishermen were apprehended while fishing near Suchathivu. The Sri Lankan Navy also seized four mechanised powerboats used by the fishermen. The arrested fishermen are reportedly being taken to the Kankesanthurai naval camp for interrogation and further legal procedures.
Fishermen associations said repeated arrests and boat confiscations by Sri Lankan authorities are severely affecting their livelihoods. They alleged that beyond arrests, Sri Lanka has been taking steps to nationalise seized boats, causing heavy financial losses to fishermen who depend entirely on deep-sea fishing for survival.
The latest detention has triggered unrest among coastal fishing communities in Ramanathapuram district, with families expressing concern over the safety and early release of those arrested. Leaders of various fishermen unions have urged the Union and State governments to intervene diplomatically and secure the fishermen’s release along with the return of their boats.
Officials noted that this is not an isolated incident. Just a few days ago, the Sri Lankan Navy had arrested 25 Tamil Nadu fishermen on similar charges, highlighting the continuing friction in the Palk Bay fishing zone despite ongoing bilateral talks.
Fishermen representatives reiterated their demand for a permanent solution, including regulated fishing access, prevention of boat seizures, and livelihood protection measures, as repeated arrests continue to disrupt fishing activities and heighten distress along the Tamil Nadu coast.
