Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has reached out to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, advocating for prompt diplomatic measures concerning the release of Indian fishermen currently detained by Sri Lankan authorities. On May 12, 2026, the Sri Lankan Navy apprehended six fishermen from Mandapam in the Ramanathapuram district, reportedly for crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL).

Details of the Incident

In his correspondence, Vijay specified that the fishermen had embarked on their fishing expedition on May 10 and were subsequently seized along with their fishing vessel on the day of their arrest. The individuals involved include Alex, Anthoni Rajan, Santhana Alocias, Arul They Britto, Albert, and Sahaya Selvashanu. He underscored the urgency of the situation in his letter to the External Affairs Minister.

Vijay quoted the details of the arrest, noting, “I wish to draw your attention to the arrest of six fishermen belonging to Mandapam in Ramanathapuram District by the Sri Lankan Navy today (12.05.2026).” He expressed concern for the well-being of the fishermen and the implications of their detention on local communities reliant on fishing for their livelihood.

Alongside the recent arrest, the Chief Minister highlighted that there are currently 54 Indian fishermen incarcerated in Sri Lankan prisons, with 264 fishing boats also reported as impounded by authorities in Sri Lanka. These figures illustrate the broader context of the ongoing fishing disputes between the two nations.

Call for Diplomacy

In his appeal, Chief Minister Vijay urged Minister Jaishankar to utilise all available diplomatic avenues to facilitate the swift release of the fishermen, as well as the return of their fishing boats. The Chief Minister remarked on the importance of resolving such issues amicably, stressing that the welfare of the fishermen should be a priority.

“It is also brought to notice that 54 fishermen are already in Sri Lankan prisons and 264 boats have been impounded by the Sri Lankan authorities. In this regard, I request you to take up the matter with the Sri Lankan Authorities through appropriate diplomatic channels to secure the release of the detained fishermen and their boats at the earliest,” wrote Vijay in his letter.

The letter reflects a rising tension in the region, where incidents of fishermen straying across maritime borders have been a point of contention. The Tamil Nadu government is seeking to address these issues through diplomacy, as many families are left waiting for their loved ones to return and are affected by the loss of their fishing vessels.

Local Impact and Concerns

The detention of fishermen can have significant repercussions for local economies, particularly in coastal areas reliant on fishing. Many families depend on the income generated from these activities, and prolonged detentions can result in financial hardships. The situation highlights the need for collaborative efforts between India and Sri Lanka to address maritime disputes.

As the Tamil Nadu government continues to advocate for the welfare of its fishermen, it remains crucial for both countries to engage in constructive dialogue to mitigate such incidents in the future. The appeal from Chief Minister Vijay serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by fishing communities along the maritime borders.

Resolution of these matters is also seen as essential for fostering better relations between India and Sri Lanka, along with ensuring peace and security in the region’s waters. The urgency of diplomatic action in cases such as these is paramount for the welfare of all involved parties.

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