Terming Sri Lanka’s Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (Amendment) Bill “black legislation,” DMK working president M. K. Stalin on Sunday said it aimed at completely finishing off the traditional livelihood of Tamil Nadu fishermen.
“Sri Lanka keeps saying India is its friendly nation, but has brought in a legislation with the harshest of punishments, such as a fine of 50,000 Lankan rupees, two years imprisonment and confiscation of their boats,” Mr. Stalin said. “Is this how a friendly nation acts,,” Mr. Stalin asked.
The Leader of the Opposition said the Centre should exert pressure on Sri Lanka either at the consular level or through the Prime Minister, and the Tamil Nadu government must ensure that the Centre took steps.
Recalling the talks held between fishermen of both the countries, Mr. Stalin said it was sad that this “black legislation” had come as a deal-breaker.
Mr. Stalin further said that despite seeking funds to procure more than 2,000 deep sea fishing boats, the Centre had provided funds only for 500 boats and the State had notified it in May this year.
“It looks like it might take another three years for them to procure all the boats, as they are working at the speed of a tortoise,” he said.
‘Retrieve Katchatheevu’
The Centre should immediately take steps to ensure Sri Lanka withdraws this Bill and ensure steps for the retrieval of Katchatheevu, Mr. Stalin.
AIADMK (Puratchi Thalaivi Amma) leader O. Panneerselvam too said the Sri Lankan government was acting in a heartless manner.
“Instead of thinking they have fulfilled their duty by writing letters to the Prime Minister and issuing statements, the Tamil Nadu government should force the Centre to secure the release of Tamil Nadu fishermen and protect their rights,” he said.
