Eight Indian fishermen from Tamil Nadu’s Rameswaram were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy early Sunday for allegedly crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) and fishing in Sri Lankan waters. Their boat was also seized during the operation.

According to fisheries department officials, the fishermen were apprehended near Delft Island, a region often patrolled by Sri Lankan naval forces. Authorities in Sri Lanka have charged them with illegal poaching, citing repeated incursions despite prior diplomatic engagements.

This arrest adds to a series of similar incidents that have strained fishing relations across the Palk Strait. Fishermen from Ramanathapuram, Pudukottai, and other coastal districts in Tamil Nadu frequently face arrest and detention in Sri Lanka for alleged boundary violations.

Local fishermen claim they are driven to cross the maritime boundary due to declining fish stocks in Indian waters. Many argue that traditional fishing areas historically used by Tamil fishermen have now become part of Sri Lanka’s territory due to past maritime agreements.

The Tamil Nadu government has urged the central government to intervene diplomatically and secure the release of detained fishermen and their vessels. Indian authorities have reportedly raised the issue with Sri Lanka through diplomatic channels.

Fishermen’s associations in Rameswaram have called for immediate action and warned of statewide protests if the arrests continue. “Our livelihoods are under constant threat. We demand the release of our men and boats,” said a local leader.

The arrested fishermen are expected to be presented before a magistrate in Sri Lanka, where they may be remanded to judicial custody pending investigation.