India releases more Lankan fishermen

Ridma Dissanayake

Another group of Sri Lankan fishermen detained by the Indian Coast Guard has been released within five days following enquiries, Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development Ministry Media Secretary Narendra Rajapaksa told the Daily News.

According to Rajapaksa, India released 35 fishermen and seven fishing vessels from custody in Andhra Pradesh. There are another six fishermen and one boat held in custody in Andhra Pradesh.

The Fisheries Ministry is negotiating with the Indian central government to free them soon as the administration of the Andaman islands under the Indian central government.

“As soon as the Indian central government confirms their despatch, these 35 fishermen and seven vessels will arrive in Sri Lanka within a few days,” Rajapaksa said.

Fishing vessels Risora Duwa 02, Deshani 01, Kulal Putha, Thejana 02, Priyan 04, Kalani, Thejana 07 and Niranjala were held by Andhra Pradesh officials for illegally crossing the Indian maritime border along with the 41 crew.

The owners of fishing vessels went to Indian courts to get the fishermen released while paying Rs. 50,000 as fines for each fisherman.

Because one vessel owner had appealed against the fine, his vessel and other six fishermen were not released.

The Indian Coast Guard rounded up those vessels with 41 fishermen while fishing in Indian waters four months ago.