Tamil fishermen from Neduntheevu and Nainatheevu have suffered significant losses after Indian fishermen unlawfully intruded into their traditional fishing waters and destroyed fishing nets worth several lakhs of rupees.
The incident took place on Wednesday last week, when local fishermen had cast their nets and were awaiting their catch. According to reports from the islands, multiple boats carrying Indian fishermen crossed into the waters off Neduntheevu. The Eelam Tamils say their netes were damaged by massive Indian trawlers that engage in bottom trawling.
The destruction comes at a devastating time for fishing families. Following last week’s severe weather conditions and storm activity, fishermen from both islands had been unable to go to sea for several days, leaving households without income and struggling to meet basic needs. With conditions finally improving, many had returned to fishing in the hope of restoring their livelihoods, only to see their equipment destroyed.
For many families, these nets represent their primary means of survival. Having already endured days without earnings due to adverse weather, the sudden loss of their gear has plunged them into an even deeper economic crisis.
Fishermen have urged the relevant authorities to take immediate note of the incident, provide urgent assistance to those affected, and take concrete measures to prevent the continued intrusion of Indian fishing vessels.
The recurring incursions by Indian fishermen have long been a point of contention for Eelam Tamil fishing communities, who face repeated economic losses.
