Tamil Nadu fishermen

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin has urged External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to secure the release of 35 fishermen detained by the Sri Lankan Navy, following their arrest for alleged poaching. The fishermen, who were taken with their four boats near Kudiramalei Point, are currently in judicial custody until August 21. In response, the fishermen's association in Pamban has initiated an indefinite strike, expressing disappointment over the lack of government action despite previous protests. Former Tamil Nadu CM O Panneerselvam also called for intervention, highlighting the economic impact on the fishermen's livelihoods. The Sri Lankan Navy has reported that 322 Indian fishermen and 44 fishing boats have been apprehended this year, raising concerns about the treatment of fishermen under maritime laws. The Tamil Nadu government is facing pressure to ensure the fishermen's release and address underlying maritime disputes with Sri Lanka.