The Indian government on Tuesday lodged a strong protest over firing close to Delft Island by the Sri Lankan Navy which left at least five fishermen injured.
The Sri Lankan Navy apprehended 13 Indian fishermen, according to reports.
The fishermen were on board a fishing vessel when the incident occurred.
“An incident of firing by the Sri Lankan Navy during the apprehension of 13 Indian fishermen in the proximity of Delft Island was reported in the early hours of this morning,” read a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs.
“Out of the 13 fishermen who were on board the fishing vessel, two have sustained serious injuries and are currently receiving treatment at the Jaffna Teaching Hospital,” the statement said.
Three other Indian fishermen sustained minor injuries.
Indian Consulate Intervenes
Indian Consulate Officials in Jaffna visited the injured fishermen at the hospital to seek their welfare and are extending all possible assistance to the fishermen and their families.
Lodging a strong protest over the firing incident, the MEA said: “The Sri Lankan Acting High Commissioner in New Delhi was called in today morning to the Ministry of External Affairs and a strong protest was lodged over the incident.”
“Our High Commission in Colombo has also raised the matter with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Sri Lankan government,” it said.
The Indian Ministry further said: “Government of India has always emphasized the need to treat issues pertaining to fishermen in a humane and humanitarian manner, keeping in mind livelihood concerns.”
The Indian government said use of force is not acceptable under any circumstances.
“Existing understandings between the two Governments in this regard must be strictly observed,” the statement said.
The thorny issue of Indian fishermen illegally fishing in Sri Lankan waters came up during the visit with the commitment by Dissanayake and Modi to avoid “any aggressive behaviour or violence” and continue the bilateral dialogue until a resolution is found.
(With inputs from IBNS)
