Rameswaram fishermen begin indefinite strike demanding release of detained peers, restoration of fuel subsidies

Mechanised boat fishermen in Rameswaram launched an indefinite strike from Monday following an emergency consultative meeting, demanding the immediate release of nine local Rameswaram fishers arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy.

The meeting of the Rameswaram All Mechanised Boat Fishermen Association was held on Monday, where a series of resolutions were unanimously adopted.

The association condemned the arrest of nine fishermen, who had ventured into the sea from the Rameswaram port on October 3 aboard a mechanised boat bearing registration number IND TN 10 MM 457, along with the seizure of their vessel by the Sri Lankan Navy.

Urging both the Union and State governments to intervene decisively, the fishermen called for immediate diplomatic pressure to secure the release of the detained men and their boat, while reiterating the urgent need for a permanent solution to the recurrent cross-border fishing dispute.

Addressing domestic grievances, the association highlighted that fishermen in Rameswaram have operated wooden mechanised boats for over 40 years.

Due to the ageing and deteriorating condition of these vessels, which poses a serious threat to lives at sea, over 60 boats have recently been upgraded with fibreglass cabins.

However, local Fisheries Department officials have reportedly withheld fishing tokens and tax-exempt diesel for these modified boats, severely crippling livelihoods.

The association has requested the issuance of revised Registration Certificates (RC books), similar to procedures followed in other ports, alongside the immediate restoration of permits and subsidised fuel.

Further, the fishermen demanded immediate government relief and compensation for a total of 47 mechanised boats seized by the Sri Lankan Navy since 2025, including vessels left out of previous compensation disbursements.

To press for these demands, the association announced an indefinite strike. As part of their protest, a delegation of fishermen will travel to Chennai on Thursday to meet the Minister for Fisheries and senior government officials in person, said fishermen leader Jesuraja.

The association warned that if their grievances were not redressed promptly, they would unite all fisherfolk organisations across Ramanathapuram district to stage continuous agitations until their demands were met.