The traditional fishermen community in Kerala is exploring legal options to surmount the 61-day fishing ban imposed by the Centre. Organisations representing fishers are seeking legal advice on challenging the order issued by the Ministry of Agriculture on April 10 imposing a uniform ban on fishing by all vessels.
Leaders of these organisations feel that the ban violates the fundamental livelihood rights of the fishers and hence could be struck down by the court. “We are left with no other option but to seek the help of the judiciary to protect our legitimate rights,” says T. Peter, secretary, National Fishworkers Forum.
According to the government order, the uniform fishing ban is being imposed for the conservation and effective management of fish resources and sea safety.
The ban is from June 1 to July 31 on the west coast and April 15 to June 14 on the east coast. Unlike the 45-day annual trawling ban, the uniform fishing ban prohibits the operation of all types of vessels for 61 days.
