- Indian fisherman killed, another missing after collision with Sri Lankan naval vessel.
- India summons Sri Lankan acting high commissioner to register strong protest.
- Incident heightens tensions over fishing rights near Katchatheevu Island.
A recent collision between a Sri Lankan naval vessel and an Indian fishing boat near Katchatheevu Island resulted in the death of one Indian fisherman and left another missing.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India lodged a strong protest with the Sri Lankan acting high commissioner, expressing shock and urging adherence to humane treatment of fishermen as per existing agreements.
Tensions Rise Over Fishing Rights After Fatal India-Sri Lanka Collision
India’s high commissioner in Colombo, Santosh Jha, will raise the issue with the Sri Lankan government. The incident adds to ongoing tensions over fishing rights in the region, with both nations frequently arresting each other‘s fishermen for violating maritime boundaries. Indian officials have been dispatched to provide support to the affected families.
India responded swiftly by summoning Sri Lanka’s acting high commissioner, Priyanga Wickremesinghe, to lodge a formal protest. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) highlighted the need for humane treatment of fishermen and stressed the importance of avoiding force. India has consistently raised issues related to fishermen’s safety at the highest diplomatic levels with Sri Lanka.
Katchatheevu Island, located between Rameswaram in India and Sri Lanka, has been a contentious area for decades. Despite an agreement in 1974 ceding the island to Sri Lanka, Indian fishermen are allowed access under certain conditions. However, disputes over fishing rights continue to cause friction between the two nations.
This latest incident follows a recent operation in which a Sri Lankan Navy personnel was killed while seizing an Indian fishing boat, further complicating the relationship. The Indian government prioritizes the safety of its fishermen, frequently addressing these concerns with Sri Lankan leadership. A search operation is currently underway for the missing fisherman, with Indian consulate officials providing necessary assistance.
The recent collision near Katchatheevu Island underscores the fragile nature of India-Sri Lanka relations concerning fishing rights. Both nations must work together to ensure the safety and humane treatment of their fishermen, preventing further escalation of tensions.
“The Indian government has always emphasised the need to deal with issues pertaining to fishermen in a humane and humanitarian manner.”
