• durgesh dubey
• 29 Sep, 2024

sri lanka

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has called on External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar to address the recent arrest of 37 Tamil Nadu fishermen by Sri Lankan authorities. In a letter, Gandhi highlighted the unjust treatment faced by these fishermen, who were apprehended while attempting to assist a distressed Sri Lankan boat on September 21, 2024. He urged for swift diplomatic action to secure their release and the return of their seized boats.The fishermen, from the Mayiladuthurai Parliamentary Constituency, were reportedly arrested for allegedly crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line despite their humanitarian efforts. In his correspondence, Gandhi noted that the fishermen are small-scale operators and emphasized that their boats are community-owned resources.Gandhi condemned the repeated arrests of Indian fishermen by Sri Lankan authorities, describing these actions as detrimental to their livelihoods and calling for strong governmental intervention. He reiterated the need for immediate diplomatic efforts to ensure the fishermen's release and the return of their boats, stating that such incidents warrant strict condemnation.In conclusion, Gandhi expressed his commitment to supporting the affected families and underscored the importance of protecting the rights of Indian fisherfolk. The issue has been a point of concern for both the Tamil Nadu government and the central government, with Chief Minister M.K. Stalin previously urging Jaishankar to intervene on behalf of the detained fishermen.