In a letter to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin, Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar assured him that efforts are being made to secure the release of 34 Indian fishermen who have been in Sri Lanka's custody. The issue dates back to 1974 and the NDA government has been working towards addressing the livelihood interests of the fishing community since coming to office in 2014. The Indian High Commission in Colombo and Indian consulate in Jaffna are also working to expedite the release of the detained fishermen. With elections approaching in 2024, this has become a key issue for India's external affairs ministry.
India's Diplomatic Efforts to Secure Release of Fishermen from Sri Lankan Custody
Background:
The issue of Indian fishermen being held in Sri Lankan custody dates back to the 1974 maritime boundary agreement between the two countries. The agreement established a maritime zone where both countries had exclusive fishing rights, but disputes arose over the exact location of the boundary. Indian fishermen often inadvertently cross over into Sri Lankan waters while fishing, leading to arrests and detentions by Sri Lankan authorities.
Recent Developments:
In response to concerns raised by the Government of Tamil Nadu and fishing communities, India's External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, has assured Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin that efforts are being made to secure the release of 34 Indian fishermen who have been detained in Sri Lanka.
The Indian High Commission in Colombo and Indian consulate in Jaffna are actively involved in the process, working with Sri Lankan authorities to expedite the release of the detained fishermen.
Government's Efforts:
Since coming to office in 2014, the NDA government has made addressing the livelihood interests of the fishing community a priority. The government has taken several steps to support fishermen, including:
Election Implications:
With elections approaching in 2024, the issue of Indian fishermen in Sri Lankan custody has become a key concern for India's external affairs ministry. The government is keen to demonstrate its commitment to safeguarding the interests of fishermen and ensuring their safe return home.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers:
Q: How many Indian fishermen are currently detained in Sri Lanka? A: As of the latest reports, there are 34 Indian fishermen in Sri Lankan custody.
Q: What is the root cause of the detentions? A: The detentions stem from disputes over the maritime boundary between India and Sri Lanka. Indian fishermen often cross over into Sri Lankan waters inadvertently while fishing.
Q: What is the Government of India doing to secure their release? A: The Indian High Commission in Colombo and Indian consulate in Jaffna are working with Sri Lankan authorities to expedite the release of the detained fishermen. The Indian government is also engaging with Sri Lanka through diplomatic channels.
Q: What is the impact of the detentions on Indian fishermen? A: The detentions can have a significant impact on Indian fishermen, both financially and emotionally. Fishermen may lose their livelihood, and their families may face financial hardship.
Q: How is the Government of Tamil Nadu responding to the issue? A: The Government of Tamil Nadu has raised the issue with the central government and has been actively advocating on behalf of the detained fishermen.
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