Ten Indian fishermen from Mandapam, Tamil Nadu, have been detained by the Sri Lankan Navy for allegedly crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) during their fishing activities. The incident, which occurred on February 3, 2025, has sparked significant unrest among the local fishing community, who have long expressed concerns over recurring detentions of their members.
According to the Mandapam Fisherman Association, the fishermen were apprehended near the Mannar Lowlands and taken to the Mannar naval base for interrogation. This latest detention adds to the growing number of similar incidents, with authorities confirming the seizure of their mechanised boat, identified as IND TN 11 MM 258. The detained fishermen include D Efran, S Dron of Thangachimadam, and Prasad, among others.
The situation has prompted Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin to call upon Union External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar for immediate diplomatic measures to address the repeated arrests and secure the release of detained fishermen and their vessels. Stalin highlighted the scale of the problem, stating, "Within the last 27 days, 63 fishermen and 5 fishing boats have been apprehended by the Sri Lankan Navy." He pointed out the drastic economic damage these incidents inflict on the coastal community, where families are living under constant fear of detainment.
This incident follows closely behind the apprehension of 34 fishermen from Rameswaram and Thangachimadam the previous week, as well as 13 others earlier on January 28. Collectively, these recent actions reveal the increasing tensions between Indian fishermen and Sri Lankan military forces, which have previously culminated in physical confrontations.
On January 28, the Sri Lankan Navy reportedly opened fire on Indian fishermen from Karaikal, injuring two. The fishermen were part of a group fishing near Parutthura beach when Sri Lankan patrols intercepted their vessels. The injured were taken to Jaffna Teaching Hospital for treatment, but the remaining crew members faced local police custody, prompting strong reactions from Indian officials.
The Indian government has expressed outrage over the continuous detentions and the violence against its fishermen. The Ministry of External Affairs summoned the Sri Lankan Acting High Commissioner to register their protest. Diplomatic efforts have been underway, with both the Tamil Nadu and central governments seeking to resolve these maritime conflicts. Recently, 41 fishermen detained near Katchatheevu were repatriated after government intervention.
Despite these diplomatic discussions, the frequency of arrests has led to protests among fishermen's families, who gathered en masse on January 31, demanding swift action from the authorities. Antony John, leader of the Rameswaram Fisherman Association, voiced the community's fears, stating, "Fishing in the Palk Bay is no longer safe, as fishermen are not only losing their livelihoods but also their boats and fishing equipment to Sri Lankan authorities.” The continuous arrests have left many families struggling economically, adding to the community's sense of urgency.
The fishermen's plight has led to broader calls for the Indian government to negotiate maritime boundaries more effectively and establish protections against arbitrary detentions. Since June 2024, around 425 Tamil Nadu fishermen and 58 fishing boats have been detained, generating significant anxiety and dissatisfaction among affected families.
Former Union Minister Anbumani Ramadoss urged stronger action, insisting on the necessity of resolving disputes over maritime boundaries to allow Tamil Nadu fishermen to operate without fear. Fishermen’s groups are calling for immediate negotiations, not only to facilitate the release of their compatriots but also to seek solutions for future incidents.
The sentiment among Tamil Nadu’s fishing community echoes the need for sustained advocacy and protective measures from the government to alleviate both the economic pressures they face and the immediate threats of detention. Local officials have struggled to provide effective deterrents against Sri Lankan navy patrols, leading to repeated cycles of apprehension and diplomatic protest without resolutions.
Underlining the gravity of the situation, fishermen's associations have written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, advocating for urgent intervention to prevent mid-sea arrests and protect their livelihoods. Following repeated appeals, the local community remains cautious, hoping the authorities will usher results quickly to restore their sense of security on the waters of the Gulf of Mannar.