Sri Lanka Repatriates 19 Indian Fishermen Amid Ongoing Maritime Dispute

Sri Lanka Repatriates 19 Indian Fishermen Amid Ongoing Maritime Dispute

NEW DELHI, Apr 20 (VoM News) — Sri Lanka on Monday repatriated 19 Indian fishermen, even as fresh detentions by its navy highlight the continuing maritime tensions with India, officials said.

The High Commission of India confirmed the fishermen were released and were expected to reach home later in the day.

The move comes days after Sri Lankan authorities detained another group for allegedly fishing inside its territorial waters, a recurring issue in the region.

According to the Sri Lanka Navy, at least 128 Indian fishermen have been apprehended so far this year on charges of illegal fishing.

In one recent case, Sri Lankan personnel seized an Indian fishing boat and detained four fishermen near Mannar on April 13. Earlier, 12 others were picked up off Kareinagar under similar circumstances.

Officials said those detained are usually produced before local courts, while confiscated boats often remain in Sri Lankan custody for extended periods.

Tensions frequently flare in the Palk Strait, a narrow but resource-rich stretch of water separating Tamil Nadu from Sri Lanka. Fishermen from both sides often cross into disputed areas in search of better catch, triggering arrests and, at times, confrontations.

Despite periodic releases and diplomatic engagement, the issue remains unresolved, continuing to strain ties between the two neighbours.