Jaishankar dismisses DMK claims, says “I replied 21 times.”
The Katchatheevu island row has been a contentious issue between India and Sri Lanka, especially concerning the fishing rights of Indian fishermen in the region. The recent statements by Foreign Minister S Jaishankar shed light on the historical context of the island’s transfer to Sri Lanka in 1974 and the subsequent indifference shown by earlier Indian governments, particularly under Pandit Nehru and later under Indira Gandhi. This indifference, according to Jaishankar, has led to ongoing challenges for Indian fishermen in the region, as well as highlighting the lack of consultation with Tamil Nadu state governments over the years.
Historical Background
The Katchatheevu island, a small, uninhabited island of about 1.6 km long and over 300 m wide, holds significant importance due to its proximity to the fishing grounds used by Indian fishermen from Tamil Nadu. The island was transferred to Sri Lanka in 1974 under an Indo-Sri Lankan maritime agreement signed by the then-Indira Gandhi government.
Indifference of Past Governments
Foreign Minister Jaishankar’s remarks point towards a history of neglect and indifference by earlier Indian governments, notably under Pandit Nehru and later continued under Indira Gandhi. He suggests that these leaders viewed Katchatheevu as a minor inconvenience and were eager to give it away without considering the impact on Indian fishermen.
According to Jaishankar, Nehru considered the island insignificant, with no importance, and viewed it as a nuisance. This attitude, he argues, persisted through subsequent administrations, including Indira Gandhi’s, who reportedly referred to the island as a “little rock” with dismissive remarks.
Lack of Consultation with Tamil Nadu
One of the key points raised by Jaishankar is the lack of consultation with Tamil Nadu state governments on the Katchatheevu issue. He mentioned that despite claims by the DMK that they were not consulted, he personally replied to the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister 21 times on the matter.
Jaishankar’s statements highlight the historic attitude of the Congress party towards Katchatheevu, suggesting that they approached the issue with indifference and without taking responsibility for the consequences.
Ongoing Challenges for Indian Fishermen
The transfer of Katchatheevu to Sri Lanka has had significant implications for Indian fishermen, particularly from Tamil Nadu, who rely on the waters around the island for their livelihood. According to Jaishankar, Indian fishermen continue to face detention, the seizure of their boats, and ongoing challenges in the region.
The Foreign Minister emphasized that while statements may be made in Chennai, it is the central government that takes action and deals with the repercussions on the ground. He highlighted the efforts made by the government to secure the release of detained fishermen and their boats.
Recent Developments and Media Attention
The Katchatheevu island row has resurfaced in recent times, particularly after a media report based on an RTI reply received by Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai regarding the 1974 pact. This has brought renewed attention to the issue, with political parties in Tamil Nadu, including the DMK, raising questions about the transfer of the island and its impact on Indian fishermen.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Katchatheevu island row remains a sensitive and unresolved issue between India and Sri Lanka, particularly concerning the fishing rights of Indian fishermen. Foreign Minister S Jaishankar’s recent statements have shed light on the historical context of the island’s transfer, highlighting the indifference of past Indian governments and the ongoing challenges faced by Indian fishermen in the region.
The lack of consultation with Tamil Nadu state governments over the years has been a point of contention, with Jaishankar stating that he personally responded to the Chief Minister’s queries on the matter multiple times. The recent media attention and political scrutiny have once again brought this issue to the forefront, underscoring the need for a comprehensive and consultative approach to address the concerns of Indian fishermen and ensure their rights in the region.