Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has issued an urgent appeal to Union Minister for External Affairs S. Jaishankar following the recent detention of 47 fishermen from Tamil Nadu by the Sri Lankan Navy. The Chief Minister is pressing for their immediate release.
In his letter to Mr. Jaishankar, Mr. Stalin also emphasized the critical need to reactivate the Joint Working Group, a crucial forum for addressing such recurring maritime disputes.
Mr. Stalin highlighted the profound anxiety and insecurity gripping the fishing communities across Tamil Nadu’s coastal regions due to this incident. He noted that this marks the first time in 2025 that such a substantial number of fishermen have been arrested on a single day, underscoring the severity of the situation.
He further elaborated that these frequent arrests not only endanger the lives and livelihoods of Tamil Nadu fishermen but also significantly erode their morale and confidence in continuing their traditional profession. As of October 9 this year, a staggering total of 242 fishing boats and 74 fishermen from Tamil Nadu remain impounded in Sri Lankan custody.
Stresssing the gravity of the matter, Chief Minister Stalin implored for swift action, stating, “Given the seriousness of the situation, I earnestly request your urgent intervention to address this matter with the authorities concerned, and also to secure the expeditious release of the apprehended fishermen and their boats. I also urge you to revive the Joint Working Group, and to make all diplomatic efforts to ensure that such incidents do not recur.”