New Delhi,As on 18 July 2014, there are 5 Indian
fishermen along with 47 Indian fishing vessels under the custody of Sri Lankan
authorities on charges of fishery related violations. The Government, as a
result of its continuous efforts, has secured the release of all 197 Indian
fishermen arrested in 2012, all 676 Indian fishermen arrested in 2013 and 536
Indian fishermen arrested till 18 July 2014 from the custody of Sri Lanka.
Government attaches the highest importance to the welfare, safety and security
of our fishermen. As soon as reports of apprehension of Indian fishermen by Sri
Lankan Navy are received, the Government, through diplomatic channels, takes up
the matter with the relevant Sri Lankan authorities. Keeping in mind the
humanitarian and livelihood dimensions of the issue, Government has impressed
on the Sri Lankan Navy to act with restraint, not to fire on our fishermen and
treat our fishermen in a humane manner. The matter has been taken up during
meetings at various levels, including the recent meeting between PM and Sri
Lankan President in New Delhi on 27 May 2014 as well as bilateral discussions
held between EAM and the Sri Lankan External Affairs Minister in New Delhi on
11 July 2014. Government remains engaged with the Government of Sri Lanka with
a view to ensuring that fishermen on both sides can continue to pursue their
livelihood in a safe, secure and sustainable manner.
This Information was given by the Minister of state in the Ministry of External
Affairs and Overseas Indian Affairs Gen. Retd. Dr. V. K. Singh in Lok Sabha
today.
एक टिप्पणी भेजें