August 1, 2024: India has lodged a strong protest with Sri Lanka following a fatal collision between a Sri Lankan naval vessel and an Indian fishing boat near Katchatheevu Island. The incident occurred off Delft Island during a Sri Lankan Navy operation aimed at deterring Indian poaching trawlers.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the collision resulted in the death of one Indian fisherman, with another fisherman reported missing. The remaining two fishermen were rescued and brought to Kankesanthurai. A search operation is ongoing for the missing individual. The Indian Consulate in Jaffna has been instructed to provide all necessary assistance to the survivors and their families.
The Indian High Commissioner in Colombo is expected to address the matter with Sri Lankan authorities. The Indian government has emphasized the need for humane treatment of fishermen and adherence to existing bilateral agreements to prevent such incidents in the future.
Sri Lankan Navy Spokesman Captain Gayan Wickramasuriya reported that the Indian fishing vessel, which had four crew members on board, capsized due to aggressive maneuvers and challenging sea conditions during the Navy’s operation. One of the rescued fishermen was taken to Punkudathivu Hospital but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries shortly after admission.
Late in the evening, the Indian High Commission confirmed that its consulate general in Jaffna visited the rescued fishermen and facilitated communication with their families in India. Additionally, the Indian High Commission secured the release of 20 Indian fishermen, who are scheduled to be repatriated within a day. The incident has heightened tensions between the two countries, with India calling for measures to ensure the safety and security of its fishermen and prevent future occurrences.
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