TN Resolution to Reclaim Katchatheevu Island

Current Affairs National

Posted by newadmin on 2025-04-04 08:52:04 |

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The Tamil Nadu Assembly has recently passed a resolution urging the Government of India to reclaim Katchatheevu island from Sri Lanka. This decision received unanimous support from all political parties present. Chief Minister MK Stalin highlighted the ongoing issues faced by Tamil Nadu fishermen, who frequently encounter arrests by the Sri Lankan Navy. The resolution reflects both political and social concerns for the rights of local fishermen and the historical significance of Katchatheevu.

Katchatheevu is a small island located in the Palk Strait between India and Sri Lanka. The island was ceded to Sri Lanka in 1974 under an agreement signed by both nations. Since then, it has remained a contentious issue, particularly for Tamil Nadu fishermen who depend on the waters surrounding the island for their livelihood. The Sri Lankan Navy’s arrests and confiscation of fishing boats have intensified demands for reclaiming the island.

Historically, Indian and Sri Lankan fishermen coexisted in the shared waters without significant disputes. However, the 1974 and 1976 maritime agreements altered the situation. The 1974 agreement established the maritime boundary in the Palk Strait, granting each country control over the waters, islands, and seabed on their respective sides. Indian fishermen were allowed to visit the island for religious purposes, rest, and dry their nets but were prohibited from fishing in Sri Lankan waters, including its territorial sea and Exclusive Economic Zone. The 1976 agreement further solidified this boundary without consulting the Tamil Nadu government, mandating that both countries adhere to international maritime laws.

The conflict arises primarily due to fish depletion in Indian waters, prompting Indian fishermen to venture into Sri Lankan territory. Many use mechanized trawlers that harm marine ecosystems, leading to stricter enforcement by Sri Lanka. As a result, Indian fishermen face frequent arrests and clashes, some of which turn violent despite diplomatic agreements discouraging force. Security concerns have also played a role, especially after 2009, when Sri Lanka intensified patrols in the Palk Strait to prevent the resurgence of Tamil insurgents.

The Government of India maintains that Katchatheevu was always a disputed territory and was not technically ceded, as it was never fully under Indian control. The agreement clearly places the island on Sri Lanka’s side of the maritime boundary. Despite repeated concerns raised by India at the highest political levels, the issue remains unresolved, with the case still pending in the Supreme Court of India.

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