Vasan slams attack on Tamil Nadu fishermen by Sri Lankan navy

MADURAI: Tamil Maanila Congress president G K Vasan on Monday condemned the attack on Tamil Nadu fishermen by the Sri Lankan navy. In a statement, the former Union minister for shipping stated that the attack took place on Saturday when fishermen were fishing near Katchatheevu.
Fishermen from Rameswaram went for fishing in 556 motorised boats on Saturday. The Sri Lankan navy pelted them with stones. The fishermen hid in the boats to escape from the attack. Six fishermen were injured and narrowly escaped death when a Sri Lankan navy vessel hit their boat and damaged it.
Vasan said more than 60 boats were damaged in the attack by the Lankan navy. He alleged that the fishing nets of 25 boats were damaged and fishermen suffered a loss to the tune of several lakh rupees.
According to him, the attacks on fishermen were affecting the livelihood of the coastal populace as they are returning to the shores without catching fish and are afraid of going for fishing.
He said that the Union government should get an assurance from Sri Lanka that the naval forces of that country would not attack Indian fishermen.