Sun Feb 09 10:18:07 UTC 2025: **Sri Lankan Navy Arrests 14 Indian Fishermen**
RAMESWARAM, INDIA – February 9, 2025 – Fourteen Indian fishermen from Ramanathapuram district were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy on Sunday for alleged poaching in the Palk Bay. Two trawlers were seized. The arrests come less than two weeks after over 50 other fishermen were detained.
The fishermen, who had left the harbor on Saturday, were apprehended while fishing. They are currently being held in a Sri Lankan naval port, awaiting legal proceedings. The incident has sparked outrage among the fishing community, with many expressing concerns about their livelihoods and safety.
Fishermen leaders, including Sesu Raja and Selvin, have condemned the arrests, highlighting the long-standing history of fishing in the Palk Bay and calling for government intervention. They are demanding talks between the Indian and Sri Lankan governments to establish a permanent solution, suggesting a memorandum of understanding to allow access to traditional fishing grounds and addressing the frequent arrests and fines imposed on Indian fishermen. A meeting is planned for Monday to determine the next course of action.
The arrests have caused significant distress among the fishermen’s families, with some reporting suicidal thoughts and emotional distress. The situation underscores the ongoing tensions between Indian and Sri Lankan fishermen over fishing rights in the Palk Strait. Local leaders are urging for immediate diplomatic action to alleviate the plight of the affected families.
**(Note: Information regarding mental health support helplines has been included from the original text.)**
First Piper 