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Fishermen associations in Rameswaram have launched an indefinite strike following the death of a fisherman and the detention of two others by the Sri Lankan Navy, vowing to resume work only after their grievances are addressed by both the Tamil Nadu and Union governments. The decision came after an urgent meeting of fishermen on Friday.
The associations decided to boycott all commercial fishing activities until all arrested Tamil Nadu fishermen in Sri Lankan prisons are released and either the return of impounded mechanised trawlers or compensation for those beyond repair.
The strike follows the death of 59-year-old K Malaisamy, who died mid-sea after a collision with a Sri Lankan Navy vessel earlier this week. Chief Minister MK Stalin has announced Rs 10 lakh compensation for his family.
According to credible sources, the incident happened on Wednesday, when four fishermen ventured into the sea near Neduntheevu islet in a boat. The Sri Lankan Navy’s surveillance vessel allegedly rammed their boat, causing it to sink.
Malaisamy died, while another fisherman, 54-year-old V. Ramachandran is missing. The other two fishermen, Mookiah (54), and Muthu Muniandi (57) were detained for interrogation.
Fishermen leader Sagayam demanded the immediate intervention of the Union government and thanked the Tamil Nadu government for its prompt response and solatium. Additionally, he called for immediate compensation for the families of missing fishermen, regardless of the outcome of the search operations.
The incident has caused unrest in the coastal pockets of Tamil Nadu, with the Government of India summoning Sri Lanka’s Acting High Commissioner to register a strong protest. Meanwhile, Indian consulate officials in Jaffna have been instructed to assist the detained fishermen and their families.
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