Chennai, April 02: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin is set to introduce a resolution in the state assembly seeking to reclaim Katchatheevu island as a permanent solution to the recurring arrests of Tamil Nadu fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy.
The resolution states that retrieving Katchatheevu is the only lasting measure to protect the traditional fishing rights of Tamil Nadu’s fishermen. “To mitigate the sufferings faced by our fishermen at the hands of the Sri Lankan Navy, the retrieval of Katchatheevu Island is the only permanent solution,” the statement read.
The resolution urges the Union Government to immediately review the Indo-Sri Lankan agreement and take necessary steps to reclaim the island. It also calls on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to hold discussions with the Sri Lankan government to secure the release of imprisoned fishermen and their seized boats during his official visit to Sri Lanka.
The move comes amid rising tensions, with frequent arrests and boat seizures by the Sri Lankan Navy over alleged trespassing into the island nation’s waters.
In February, fishermen in Rameswaram launched an indefinite strike after 32 fishermen were arrested and five boats seized near the North Mannar region, triggering widespread protests among the coastal community.
Stalin’s resolution underscores the growing demands from Tamil Nadu’s fishing community for a long-term resolution to the maritime border conflict, placing pressure on the central government to take action.
