Rameswaram fishermen demand compensation for boats seized by Sri Lankan Navy

The Rameswaram All Mechanised Boat Fishermen's Association is demanding immediate compensation from the Tamil Nadu government for fishermen whose boats were seized by the Sri Lankan Navy in the Palk Strait region. Association president V. P. Jesuraj stated that the seizures have stripped many families of their livelihoods, causing significant financial hardship.

While the Tamil Nadu government reportedly announced compensation for 22 boats, Jesuraj noted that these funds have not yet reached the affected fishermen and that no compensation has been announced for the remaining boat owners. The association previously engaged in an indefinite strike starting August 31 and a hunger strike on September 2, which ended following assurances from the Tamil Nadu Fisheries Minister and department officials that demands would be met.

In addition to compensation for seized vessels, the association has submitted a formal request to the Chief Minister seeking financial assistance for the families of fishermen who lost their lives in incidents involving the Sri Lankan Navy.