A collision between a Sri Lankan naval vessel and an Indian fishing boat near Katchatheevu Island resulted in the death of one fisherman and left another missing, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reported on Thursday.
A search is currently underway for the missing fisherman. The ministry has directed Indian Consulate officials in Jaffna to urgently travel to Kankesanthurai to assist the affected fishermen and their families.
India Protests the Incident with Sri Lanka
The Indian government has expressed strong disapproval of the incident by summoning the Sri Lankan acting high commissioner in New Delhi. The MEA issued a statement, stating, “We expressed our shock and anguish at the unfortunate loss of life. Our High Commissioner in Colombo will also be raising the matter with the Sri Lankan government later today (Thursday).” The statement further noted, “The Government of India has always emphasized the need to address issues related to fishermen in a humane and humanitarian manner.”
Katchatheevu Island’s Contested Status
Katchatheevu Island, located between Rameswaram (India) and Sri Lanka, was traditionally used by fishermen from both nations. However, in 1974, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi agreed to cede the island to Sri Lanka under the “Indo-Sri Lankan Maritime Agreement.” This agreement affirmed Sri Lanka’s sovereignty over the island and addressed historical maritime boundaries in the Palk Strait and Palk Bay.
Despite this agreement, Indian fishermen are still permitted to access the island. Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized Congress for “carelessly” transferring the island to Sri Lanka during Indira Gandhi’s tenure.
The MEA emphasized the importance of adhering to the “existing understandings” between the two governments and stressed the need for measures to prevent any future incidents or the use of force. “The government attaches the highest priority to the safety and security of Indian fishermen,” the statement added, noting that the issue has been raised with Sri Lanka at the highest levels.