(UDHAYAM, TAMIL NADU) – Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami on Monday urged that the Indian fishermen must be protected from attacks (by Sri Lankan Navy) and called for safeguarding the maritime interests of the country, The Hindu reported.
Speaking at an event on board INS Chennai, which was dedicated to the city of Chennai on Monday, Mr. Palaniswami said, “Our fishermen must be protected against attacks so that they are peacefully engaged in the traditional occupation. The interest in the Exclusive Economic Zone must be protected.” However, the Chief Minister didn’t elaborate further.
Observing that the Navy personnel have always assisted the State during natural disasters, the Chief Minister stated that the State would continue to provide necessary support.
Last month, a 21-year old Indian fisherman from Tamil Nadu was shot dead allegedly by the Sri Lankan Navy while fishing in Palk Bay. The Tamil Nadu government had then urged the Centre to take up the issue with Colombo.