Fishermen in Tamil Nadu’s Ramanathapuram district are set to begin an indefinite strike from Monday, protesting the recent arrest of three local fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy and the ongoing seizure of Indian fishing vessels. The strike, called by the Mandapam Fishermen Association, threatens to halt fishing activities across the region, reflecting growing frustration among coastal communities over repeated detentions.

The latest incident occurred on Sunday when fishermen Amostin A (24), Jonedass S (37), and Paraloga Jebastian Anrose A (25) were apprehended while fishing near Neduntheevu after crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL). Their boat, TN 11 MM 096, owned by Joseph of Mandapam, was seized and taken to the Jaffna Fisheries Department after initial questioning at a Sri Lankan Navy camp.

This comes shortly after a December 23 incident in which 12 fishermen from Rameswaram were detained, sparking a one-day strike and protests calling for diplomatic intervention. In total, 61 fishermen and 248 fishing boats from Tamil Nadu remain in Sri Lankan custody, causing widespread anxiety and financial hardship among coastal families.

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Reacting to the arrests, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin wrote to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, urging immediate action to secure the release of the detained fishermen and their boats. Stalin stressed that repeated apprehensions have created severe distress in fishing communities and called for sustained diplomatic engagement to prevent further incidents.

Fishermen across Ramanathapuram have vowed not to resume work until concrete measures are taken to safeguard their livelihoods. The Mandapam Fishermen Association has demanded long-term solutions, including protection against future arrests and the safe return of all detained boats and personnel.

The situation highlights escalating tensions in the Palk Strait region, underscoring the need for urgent government diplomacy to balance maritime security concerns with the welfare of coastal communities dependent on fishing.

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