By Poor Indian Fishermen Caught in Political Crossfire as Sri Lanka Defends Navy’s Actions
Fishermen Sent to Sea While Politicians Play GamesAmid rising tensions between India and Sri Lanka over the recent firing incident involving the Sri Lankan Navy, Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal (Rtd) Sampath Thuyacontha defended Sri Lanka’s actions, stating that the country will continue to inspect vessels entering its waters to prevent illegal activities, regardless of their country of origin.
Delft Shooting
This response comes after India lodged a strong protest following the Sri Lankan Navy’s firing incident during the apprehension of 13 Indian fishermen near Delft Island in the early hours of January 28. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs called in Sri Lanka’s acting High Commissioner to express its discontent. India’s High Commission in Colombo also raised concerns with Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs over the matter.
Sri Lanka Justifies Navy’s ActionsDuring a media briefing, the Defence Secretary emphasized that the Sri Lankan Navy operates round the clock to combat illegal trafficking, human smuggling, illegal fishing, drug trade, and weapons smuggling. He reiterated that searches are conducted legally and that confrontations arise only when vessels resist inspection.
Highlighting a recent major drug seizure by the Navy, Thuyacontha asserted, “We have to search any vessel entering Sri Lankan waters, irrespective of the vessel’s country of origin. As a respected Navy, we are carrying out these searches legally. We can assure that there will be no confrontation if parties permit us to conduct our searches.”
Accidental Discharge
Meanwhile, the Sri Lanka Navy Commander stated that initial investigations revealed that two Indian fishermen were injured due to an accidental discharge of a Navy officer’s firearm. The incident occurred during an operation to disperse Indian fishing boats poaching in Sri Lankan waters near Valvettithurai, Jaffna, on January 27. When the Navy attempted to board the fishing vessel, the crew allegedly resisted, attempted to assault naval personnel, and tried to seize a firearm, leading to an unintentional discharge. The injured fishermen received first aid before being transferred to Jaffna Teaching Hospital for further treatment.
The Commander reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to protecting Sri Lanka’s waters and preventing illegal activities while adhering to professional standards and existing regulations.
Blame Game
Political Blame Game Over Fishermen’s PlightWhile Sri Lanka stands firm on its position, Indian political leaders are engaged in a blame game over the recurring arrests and harassment of Tamil Nadu fishermen. AIADMK chief and Tamil Nadu Leader of Opposition, Edappadi K. Palaniswami, criticized the ruling DMK government, accusing it of doing little beyond sending letters to the Centre whenever Sri Lankan authorities apprehend Indian fishermen.
Reacting to the recent arrests on Saturday, Palaniswami expressed dismay over the increasing incidents and urged the 39 Lok Sabha MPs from the DMK-led alliance to apply pressure in Parliament to resolve the issue. He further demanded that the Indian government hold immediate talks with Sri Lanka to secure a lasting solution.
While politicians debate and deflect responsibility, poor Indian fishermen continue to bear the brunt of cross-border tensions, forced to risk their lives at sea, caught between maritime law enforcement and political maneuvering.
