Fishermen Return: Chennai Welcomes Repatriated Indian Nationals
Fifteen Indian fishermen arrested for breaching Sri Lankan waters were released and returned home via Chennai. These fishermen, detained at various times for crossing maritime boundaries, faced legal proceedings and fines before their release. New arrests highlight ongoing tensions over maritime territorial disputes.
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Fifteen Indian fishermen, previously incarcerated for allegedly breaching Sri Lankan maritime boundaries, arrived back at Chennai airport on Friday. Their detentions occurred earlier this year across different dates, with two men apprehended on February 19, seven on July 13, two on July 21, and four on August 8.
In a related incident, the Sri Lankan Navy apprehended 12 fishermen from Karaikal on September 28 in the Bay of Bengal near Kankesanthurai. The Rameswaram Fishermen Association reported this arrest, citing accusations of international boundary violations and subsequent questioning at a naval camp, along with the seizure of their boat.
Moreover, on September 25, the arrest of 12 fishermen from multiple regions — including Kotucherry Medu, Akkampettai, and Klinjalmedu — was noted. While last month, fishermen from Ramanathapuram were released after paying significant fines. Upon their return to Chennai, the Fisheries Department officials welcomed the fishermen who faced detentions after venturing out in late June.
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