Accusing the Centre and the ruling DMK government of pursuing “anti-fishermen” policies, AIADMK chief Jayalalithaa on Tuesday said her party would stage a protest against the Marine Fisheries (Regulation and Management) Bill 2009, here on Dec 31.
Ms. Jayalalithaa in a statement here alleged that the Dravida Munnettra Kazhagam (DMK) was not taking up the issue of attacks on fishermen by Sri Lankan Navy with the Centre and asserted that the Fisheries Bill was against the interest of the fishermen.
The proposed bill makes fishing licences mandatory for Indian fishermen and those who go for fishing beyond 12 nautical miles, would also have to pay a fine of Rs. 900,000.
The AIADMK opines that the new Act would affect the fishermen adversely and is opposing it tooth and nail.
DMK president and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi had said the bill had been deferred following his appeal to the Centre to hold wider discussions with stakeholders.
To oppose these “anti-fishermen” policies, AIADMK would stage a protest on Thursday, Ms. Jayalalithaa said.
