Rameswaram fishermen and Sri Lankan Navy maritime disputes

Tensions persist between Rameswaram fishermen and the Sri Lankan Navy regarding maritime boundaries and livelihoods in the Palk Strait.

In late September, the Rameswaram All Mechanised Boat Fishermen's Association demanded compensation from the Tamil Nadu government for vessels seized by the Sri Lankan Navy. Association president V. P. Jesuraj reported that while compensation was announced for 22 boats, funds had not reached the affected families. The association had previously conducted strikes to seek financial assistance for those whose livelihoods were stripped and for families of fishermen who lost their lives during such incidents.

By early October, the situation escalated following the arrest of nine Rameswaram fishermen and the seizure of their boat near Neduntheevu. The Sri Lankan Navy stated the vessel had allegedly crossed the International Maritime Boundary Line. Local fishing representatives condemned the arrests, asserting that the fishermen held necessary permits. The association has called for intervention from both Indian and Sri Lankan authorities to establish a lasting arrangement to prevent further arrests.

In a related development, 16 other Rameswaram fishermen who had been held in Sri Lankan prisons were recently released after paying fines and were transported to Chennai via flight.