- Tamil fishermen‘s boat sinks after collision with Sri Lankan Navy vessel near Kodiyakkarai.
- Fishermen questioned for six hours before receiving medical treatment.
- Financial loss estimated at ₹6.5 lakh due to damaged equipment.
A boat belonging to Tamil fishermen sank after allegedly being rammed by a Sri Lankan Navy vessel while fishing off Kodiyakkarai’s coast.
They sustained injuries during the incident and were reportedly questioned for six hours by the Sri Lankan Navy before being transferred to local fishermen and receiving medical care at a District Hospital.
Tension Rises as Tamil Fishermen’s Boat Sinks After Sri Lankan Navy Encounter
The fishermen reported significant financial losses due to the damage and loss of equipment, including GPS devices and fishing nets, amounting to ₹6.5 lakh. Visuals of the overturned boat and a fisherman perched on top of it went viral, sparking outrage. Former AIADMK Minister Jayakumar criticized the Tamil Nadu government, citing an increase in similar incidents in 2024 involving the Sri Lankan Navy.
The fishermen were eventually handed over to local fishermen, who helped recover the sunken boat and brought the injured to shore. They were admitted to a District Hospital for treatment. The delay in providing medical assistance and the six-hour questioning session by the Sri Lankan Navy have drawn significant criticism from local leaders and the fishing community.
The financial impact on the fishermen has been considerable, with losses estimated at ₹6.5 lakh, primarily due to damaged electronic equipment and fishing nets. Social media users expressed their outrage after images of the overturned boat, with one fisherman sitting on top, were shared widely. This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between Tamil fishermen and the Sri Lankan Navy, as similar confrontations have been reported in recent months.
Political leaders, including former AIADMK Minister Jayakumar, have condemned the Tamil Nadu government for its handling of these issues. He emphasized the growing difficulties faced by Tamil fishermen, especially in 2024, as confrontations with the Sri Lankan Navy increase. His comments have drawn attention to the urgent need for diplomatic solutions to these maritime conflicts.
The sinking of the Tamil fishermen’s boat and the subsequent questioning by the Sri Lankan Navy have intensified tensions in the region. This incident underscores the urgent need for improved maritime policies and cooperation between the two nations to ensure the safety of fishermen.
“It has become a continuing struggle for fishermen mid-sea.” — Former AIADMK Minister Jayakumar
