On February 11, 2024, DMK volunteers led by party's organising secretary R.S. Bharathi staged a protest in Rameswaram against the arrest of Rameswaram fishermen by the Sri Lanka Navy and condemned the Centre for not taking any action. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, instead of addressing the issue, offered assistance of ₹34,000 crore to Sri Lanka, said Bharathi at a demonstration meeting. Despite Chief Minister M.K. Stalin directing DMK MPs to raise the issue in Parliament, the topic was "disallowed" and instead the session focused on discussing the Ram Temple.
Fishermen Clashes in Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka: A Deeper Dive
Background:
The issue of Tamil Nadu fishermen being apprehended by Sri Lankan authorities has a long and complex history. The two countries share a maritime border, and there have been disputes over fishing rights in the area for decades. The situation has been exacerbated by the fact that the two countries have different interpretations of the maritime boundary.
In recent years, the number of fishermen being apprehended has increased, and the issue has become a major source of tension between the two countries. In 2021, for example, over 500 Tamil Nadu fishermen were arrested by Sri Lankan authorities.
Recent Developments:
In February 2023, a protest was held in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, to condemn the arrest of fishermen by Sri Lankan authorities. The protest was led by the political party PMK, and was attended by a large number of fishermen and their families.
The protest was sparked by the recent arrest of 18 Tamil Nadu fishermen by Sri Lankan authorities. The fishermen were released a few days later, but the incident further strained relations between the two countries.
Possible Solutions:
There are a number of possible solutions to the issue of fishermen being apprehended by Sri Lankan authorities. One solution would be for the two countries to agree on a new maritime boundary. Another solution would be for the two countries to establish a joint fisheries commission to manage the fishing resources in the area.
FAQs:
Tamil Nadu fishermen are being apprehended by Sri Lankan authorities because the two countries have different interpretations of the maritime boundary.
In 2021, over 500 Tamil Nadu fishermen were arrested by Sri Lankan authorities.
The two countries are currently in talks to establish a joint fisheries commission to manage the fishing resources in the area.
Links for Further Information:
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