Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has written a letter to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, requesting humanitarian intervention to waive the Rs. 1.50 crore fine imposed by a Sri Lankan court on 12 Tamil Nadu fishermen.In his letter, CM Stalin expressed concern over the frequent arrests of Tamil Nadu fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy while they are engaged in fishing activities in their traditional fishing grounds. He highlighted the adverse impact these arrests have on the livelihoods of the fishermen and their families.
Recently, four fishermen from Pudukkottai, along with their fishing boats, were apprehended by the Sri Lankan Navy. CM Stalin noted that the repeated arrests and seizure of boats have caused immense distress to the fishing community.
On the 21st of last month, 12 Tamil Nadu fishermen were arrested while fishing and were subsequently fined Rs. 1.50 crore by a Sri Lankan court. This fine has further exacerbated the already difficult situation faced by the fishermen’s families and poses a significant financial burden.
CM Stalin urged the External Affairs Minister to take necessary steps to secure the release of the fishermen and their boats from Sri Lankan custody. He also requested that the fine imposed on the fishermen be waived on humanitarian grounds to alleviate the suffering of the affected families.
This appeal underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Tamil Nadu’s fishing community and the need for diplomatic efforts to ensure their safety and livelihood.