CPI seeks early release of 26 fishermen arrested by Sri Lankan Navy

CHENNAI: CPI on Sunday accused the Centre of showing "callous attitude" toward attacks by Sri Lankan Navy on Indian fishermen and demanded early release of 26 fishermen arrested recently.

"The attacks by Sri Lankan navy on Indian fishermen is highly deplorable as it has utter contempt for international laws," CPI National Secretary D Raja told PTI.

"Does Government of India treat Tamil Nadu fishermen as Indians? It has a duty to protect them... fishermen from Tamil Nadu and Puduchery have traditional rights in Katchatheevu?" he asked.

Reacting sharply to the arrest of 26 fishermen by Lankan navy two days back, Raja said the two countries should sort it out through discussions to ensure their release and sought revisiting and renegotiating of the Katchatheevu agreement.

"What is the use of giving rights to rest and drying nets and go on pilgrimage to Katchatheevu. The agreement should be revisited and renegotiated. Centre should also give due consideration to the resolution passed by the state assembly on Katchatheevu," he said.

The agreement had provisions on traditional fishing rights which were lost later due to officials' interpretation, he alleged.

Raja alleged 600 Tamil Nadu fishermen had been killed by Lankan navy and pointed out that Indian navy or Coast Guard never assaulted Lankan fishermen straying into Indian waters.