Three boats released by Indian Coastguard handed over to owners

Rafik Jalaldeen

Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Felix Perera said following the understanding reached with the Indian authorities, they were now able to resolve issues involving the capture of boats of Lankan fishermen by the Indian Coastguard.

Addressing a function yesterday to hand over three boats seized by the Indian Coastguard to the owner fishermen, the Minister said negotiations proved to be a better option than lengthy legal procedures involving the Tamil Nadu Courts.

"The Indian Government normally never releases any boats seized by the Coastguard without any legal course of action . Due to the friendly and close ties between Sri Lanka and India, the Tamil Nadu courts released three Sri Lankan boats with a fine of Rs.15 million", he added.

Three boats named Pramod Putha 1 and Pramod Putha 2 were captured by the Indian Coastguard on August 10, 2006 and Dewdu Prasansha on June 13, 2007. Around 14 fishermen who were in the three boats were released later.

Minister Perera said entering Foreign territorial waters is an offence subject to the legal action. Fishermen from Sri Lanka and India unknowingly or due to technical faults to their craft drift into each other's territory. This issue can be resolved by understanding and discussions", he added.

He also thanked the Indian Government, particularly Tamil Nadu Courts and the Indian Navy.

Counsellor of the Indian High Commission Viny Kumar said the role of Ministry of Fisheries and the Indian Navy and coastguard are vital. "I assure the Government of Sri Lanka and the Ministry of Fisheries that in any such incidents the Indian Government is always willing to support and help, as well as to take legitimate action where necessary", he added.