Sri Lankan Naval Vessel Collides With Indian Fishing Boat, Leaving 1 Dead & 1 Missing

India summoned Sri Lanka’s Acting High Commissioner to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to register a serious protest against the collision of an Indian fishing vessel and a Sri Lankan naval vessel on August 1, 2024.

One Indian fisherman was killed in the incident on Delft Island, while another was reported missing.

The MEA expressed sorrow and anguish over the loss of life and emphasized the importance of addressing issues related to fishermen in a humane and humanitarian manner.

The Ministry also reiterated that existing agreements between the two governments must be strictly adhered to prevent such incidents and to avoid the use of force.

The Indian government has continuously prioritized the safety and security of its fishermen, and the Indian High Commissioner in Colombo will discuss the issue with the Sri Lankan government.

The collision took place 5 nautical miles north of Katchatheevu, an island that has been a point of tension between India and Sri Lanka.

Despite India voluntarily giving up the claim to the island to Sri Lanka 50 years ago and the 1976 accord prohibiting Indian fishermen from its surrounding waters, controversies over fishing rights and practices continue.

One of the four fishermen onboard the vessel was declared dead, while the other two were rescued and brought ashore.

The search for the missing fishermen is underway.

The Indian Consulate officials are in contact with Sri Lankan authorities over the incident.

According to Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry, the country wants to avoid escalation of the situation and is willing to cooperate with India to find a permanent solution.

Sabry acknowledged the significance of the issue for both nations and emphasized the need for continued cooperation.

The MEA’s statement highlights the critical need for cooperation between the two countries to prevent further incidents and ensure the safety of fishermen on both sides.

Reference: Reuters, News On Air

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Source: Maritime Shipping News