In a heartening turn of events, 13 fishermen, including one who was injured by the Sri Lankan Navy, arrived in Chennai late last night after being released from Sri Lankan custody. The fishermen, hailing from Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, and Karaikal, had been detained since January for allegedly crossing the maritime boundary while fishing in Sri Lankan waters.
The group was apprehended on January 27, when two Indian fishing boats were surrounded by the Sri Lankan Coast Guard. They were accused of illegal fishing in Sri Lankan territorial waters, leading to the seizure of both boats. During the operation, Senthamizh, a 27-year-old fisherman from Karaikal, was grievously injured when the Sri Lankan Navy opened fire on the vessels. He was shot in the right leg, suffering a serious gunshot wound. Following his injury, Senthamizh received medical care in Sri Lanka, but his condition necessitated transfer to India for further treatment.
Senthamizh and his fellow fishermen were released from Sri Lankan custody after months of diplomatic efforts. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin had urged the Indian Ministry of External Affairs to work for their safe release, a call that led to diplomatic engagements between India and Sri Lanka. This effort culminated in the issuance of emergency certificates, allowing the fishermen to return home.
The 13 fishermen were flown back to Chennai on an Air India flight, where they were met by officials from the Tamil Nadu Fisheries Department. Senthamizh was immediately transferred by ambulance to MGM Private Hospital in Amingal for further treatment, while the remaining fishermen were provided with transportation to their respective hometowns in vehicles arranged by the state government.
This incident highlights the tense and often dangerous nature of fishing in disputed maritime territories. It also underscores the critical role of diplomatic intervention in ensuring the safety and well-being of citizens in international waters.
The fishermen’s release has been hailed as a victory for Indian diplomacy and a testament to the importance of government efforts in securing the rights and safety of its citizens abroad.