"Should be approached on humanitarian grounds": Rauff Hakeem calls for amicable resolution to India-Sri Lanka fishermen dispute
Tiruchirappalli, August 1
Emphasising the humanitarian dimensions of cross-border maritime livelihoods, Sri Lanka Muslim Congress leader and Member of Parliament for Kandy, Rauff Hakeem, called for a permanent and amicable solution to the long-standing fishermen's dispute between India and Sri Lanka.
Interacting with reporters at the Tiruchirappalli International Airport, Rauff Hakeem stated, "This is not just a diplomatic issue between two countries but a livelihood issue affecting fishing communities on both sides. It should be approached on humanitarian grounds, and both sides must arrive at an amicable agreement. We have repeatedly urged that the Tamil Nadu government, with the support of the Union government, engage with Sri Lankan fisheries authorities and the foreign ministries of both countries to arrive at a permanent solution at the earliest."
The maritime conflict between Indian (primarily Tamil Nadu) and Sri Lankan fishermen stems from recurring cross-border fishing allegations, vessel seizures, and detentions in the Palk Strait. While legal boundaries--such as the status of Katchatheevu--remain legally settled under 1970s bilateral pacts, the issue continues to heavily impact local livelihoods on both coasts.
Hakeem acknowledged India's vital development assistance to Sri Lanka--particularly welfare and housing for Tamil-speaking populations--while noting that external pressures like rising global crude oil prices and Middle Eastern geopolitical conflicts continue to challenge Sri Lanka's post-crisis economic recovery
He urged that similar assistance should also be extended to Tamil-speaking people in other parts of Sri Lanka, particularly in view of the country's continuing economic challenges.
"India has been a friendly nation and has provided substantial assistance to Sri Lanka. We believe such support should continue for Tamil-speaking people across all regions.
Referring to Sri Lanka's economy, Hakeem said the country has made notable progress in its economic recovery. However, the ongoing conflict in West Asia and rising crude oil prices have adversely affected export and import markets, posing fresh challenges to the recovering economy.
"There has been noticeable economic improvement. However, the conflict in the Middle East has pushed up global crude oil prices and increased shipping costs, affecting both imports and exports. These unexpected developments are placing additional pressure on Sri Lanka's recovering economy," he said.
Rauff had also visited India in June earlier this year on a 'goodwill visit' and had advocated for a balanced approach to the long-standing fisheries dispute between India and Sri Lanka.
— ANI
Reader Comments
It's heartening to see cross-border empathy. But let's be practical—Katchatheevu is legally settled. Instead of revisiting old wounds, why not focus on joint patrolling and better licensing for fishermen? The real issue is sustainable fishing, and both nations need to sit together on that.
Good to see a Sri Lankan MP acknowledging India's development assistance. The fishermen issue is complex, but if both governments show genuine political will, a permanent solution is possible. The humanitarian angle is important, but we also need to protect our coastal security. Balance is key here.
Our fishermen risk their lives daily in those waters. The Sri Lankan Navy's actions have been harsh at times. Yes, we need amicable solutions, but India must also take a firm stand to protect our citizens. Hope the Tamil Nadu government takes this forward with the Centre.
This is a genuine humanitarian issue. Both sides are losing—Indian fishermen get detained, Sri Lankan fishermen struggle with their own economic crisis. 😔 The economic angle Hakeem raised about Middle East conflicts affecting Sri Lanka is valid. India has always been a good neighbour; let's make it a win-win for both fishing communities.
While I appreciate the humanitarian framing, I think we need stricter enforcement of maritime boundaries on both sides. The issue isn't just about livelihoods—it's about respecting sovereign waters. That said, deportations and seizures should be handled humanely, and I hope the Indian government is doing that.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.