Tamil Nadu CM Vijay Urges Centre to Secure Release of 11 Indian Fishermen Held by Sri Lanka

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has written to India’s Union Minister for External Affairs Dr. S. Jaishankar, urging immediate diplomatic intervention to secure the release of 11 Indian fishermen and their mechanised fishing boat, which were apprehended by the Sri Lankan Navy on August 6, 2026.

In his letter, Vijay stated that the fishermen from Ramanathapuram district were detained after their fishing boat reportedly developed a mechanical fault and drifted near the coast of Neduntheevu (Delft Island). He noted that the Sri Lankan Navy had arrested the fishermen on allegations of crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL).

The Chief Minister expressed concern over the recurring arrests of Tamil Nadu fishermen, saying such incidents continue to disrupt the livelihoods of fishing communities dependent on the Palk Bay.

Vijay requested Dr. Jaishankar to take up the matter with the Sri Lankan government through diplomatic channels to ensure the early release and safe repatriation of the fishermen, along with their fishing boat.

He also called for the early revival of the India–Sri Lanka Joint Working Group (JWG) on fisheries, stating that renewed bilateral dialogue is essential to address the recurring issue and safeguard the interests of fishermen on both sides.

Join our WhatsApp group for instant news updates : Click HERE