Madam Speaker,

I notice that concern has been expressed by some Members of the House on the recent incidents of attack and apprehension of Indian fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy in waters between India and Sri Lanka.

At the outset, I would like to reiterate that the Government attaches the highest priority to the welfare, safety and security of our fishermen. I would like to apprise this August House on the steps taken by the Government with regard to recent incidents involving Indian fishermen.

On 03 March 2013, 16 Indian fishermen with three boats were apprehended by the Sri Lanka Navy. On 04 March 2013, they were remanded to judicial custody for 14 days on charges of fishing in Sri Lankan waters. We had immediately taken up the matter with the Sri Lankan Government seeking their immediate release and repatriation. Our Mission officials secured consular access and were in constant touch with these fishermen to ensure their safety and well being. Pursuant to our efforts they were released on 11 March 2013. Our High Commission in Sri Lanka arranged for their safe custody, 330 litres of diesel for boats and in coordination with the Indian Coast Guards arranged their safe return to India on March 12, 2013.

An incident of firing on Indian fishermen allegedly by the Sri Lankan Navy was reported in the early hours of 07 March 2013 in which one Indian fisherman was injured. We had, through diplomatic channels, lodged a strong protest with the Sri Lankan Government the same day. The Sri Lankan Navy has, however, denied having fired at any fishing craft.

According to available information 19 Indian fishermen with 04 boats were apprehended by the Sri Lankan Navy at 2030 hrs on 13 March 2013; and 34 Indian Fishermen with five fishing boats were apprehended at 0530 hrs earlier today. Officials from the Consulate General in Jaffna have sought consular access to these fishermen.

In the absence of Sri Lankan High Commissioner to India (who is out of New Delhi), the Sri Lankan Deputy High Commissioner to India was called in today and a strong protest was lodged at these incidents of apprehensions of Indian fishermen. We have called for immediate release and repatriation of the apprehended Indian fishermen. We have emphasized on the need for the Sri Lankan Navy to exercise restraint, extend humane treatment and not to resort to violence under any circumstances.

We are also aware of the case of some Indian nationals have been arrested in Sri Lankan waters on charges of smuggling narcotics and contraband. These include the five fishermen detained on 29 November 2011. Officials from our High Commission in Colombo and Consulate in Jaffna are in regular touch with the detained Indian nationals and are extending all possible consular assistance to them.

I would like to reiterate that we remain engaged with the Government of Sri Lanka to ensure that the fishermen on both sides can continue to pursue their livelihood in a safe, secure and sustainable manner.