Tamil Nadu: CPI leader for the cause of fishermen

(April 29, Chennai Sri Lanka Guardian) India should renegotiate with Sri Lanka over the Katchatheevu agreement signed in 1974 and reclaim the rights of fishermen here, CPI general secretary and MP Raja has said.

Participating in a discussion recently on the problems faced by Tamilnadu fishermen in the Indian ocean belt, Raja said the grey area in the pact need to be renegotiated and the role of fishermen should be made clear in the agreement.

‘The pact had failed to mention the fishing rights of Indian fishermen in Katchatheevu, ‘ he said. Raja said the Indian government should pursue an independent foreign policy and should not succumb to the pressure of US in its decisions.

On the ethnic problem in Lanka, the CPI leader said the Lankan government believes only in military solutions while violating human rights.

‘ The Indian government should ensure protecting the legitimate aspirations of Tamils in the island nation, he said.

Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi general secretary Thol Thirumavalavan slammed the Indian government for pursuing an step motherly attitude towards the local fishermen here.

More than the Lankan government, it is the Indian government which is creating havoc among the fishing community, he added.
- Sri Lanka Guardian