Nine fishermen from Rameswaram have been arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy, causing alarm among the local fishing community.
The incident occurred when the fishermen were reportedly fishing near the maritime boundary close to Katchatheevu, and were accused of crossing into Sri Lankan waters.
According to the reports, the Sri Lankan Navy also seized two fishing boats belonging to the Rameswaram fishermen during the operation. The detained men have been taken to the Kankesanthurai (Kangesan) naval camp, where they are currently under investigation by Sri Lankan naval authorities.
The arrests have sent shockwaves through the fishing community, with many expressing concern over the frequent detention of Indian fishermen by Sri Lankan forces. Residents and fishermen have urged both the Central and Tamil Nadu governments to take strong diplomatic steps to secure the release of the fishermen and their boats, and to prevent such incidents in the future.
Arrests of Indian fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy over alleged International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) violations are not uncommon, and have been a major issue affecting livelihoods in coastal Tamil Nadu for years.