97 Indian Fishermen in Sri Lankan Custody; India Seeks Humanitarian Resolution

March 27, 2025 20:18 [Indian News]

A total of 97 Indian fishermen are currently in Sri Lankan custody, with 83 serving sentences, three awaiting trial, and 11 apprehended on Thursday, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar informed the Rajya Sabha.

Addressing the Upper House during the Question Hour, Jaishankar emphasized that India is actively engaging with Sri Lanka to adopt a humanitarian approach to the issue. Additionally, the central government is exploring long-term solutions, such as installing transponders on fishing boats, to prevent future incidents.

Jaishankar pointed out that decisions made in 1974 and 1976 remain the root cause of the ongoing problem. He stated, “Until yesterday, 86 Indian fishermen were in Sri Lankan custody. However, with the recent apprehension of another trawler, 11 more have been detained, bringing the total to 97.”

The minister also highlighted a key challenge—many of those serving sentences are either boat owners or repeat offenders, complicating diplomatic efforts for their release. He noted that the current government has “inherited a problem” and is working toward a resolution.

India continues its dialogue with Sri Lanka, seeking both short-term relief and a long-term framework to address the recurring issue.

29

March

Two Arrested for Aiding Deshabandu Tennakoon’s Disappearance, Including Police Officer

March 29, 2025 17:24

A police constable and another individual have been arrested for allegedly assisting suspended Senior DIG Deshabandu Tennakoon in evading arrest, the Police Media Division confirmed.

29

March

Sarith N. Silva Becomes First Sri Lankan to Hit 10 Million YouTube Subscribers

March 29, 2025 15:45

Sarith N. Silva, the creator of the popular YouTube channel Wild Cook Book, has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Sri Lankan to surpass 10 million subscribers on YouTube.

28

March

Private Bus and Three-Wheeler Catch Fire Suddenly – No Injuries Reported

March 28, 2025 21:34

Two vehicles unexpectedly caught fire today in separate incidents on the Southern Expressway and in the Nuggegoda area.

28

March

Myanmar Earthquake Claims 144 Lives, Hundreds Injured

March 28, 2025 21:27

The devastating earthquake that struck Myanmar has claimed at least 144 lives, according to reports from the country’s military.

27

March

U.S. Ambassador Julie Chung Visits Sri Kotha for Key Discussions

March 27, 2025 20:29

U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung, paid a visit to the headquarters of the United National Party (UNP), Sri Kotha, today for a crucial discussion with the party’s leadership.