In a powerful symbol of diplomacy and goodwill, Sri Lanka released 14 Indian fishermen on Sunday, coinciding with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to the island nation. The move, described by both nations as a humanitarian gesture, comes amid renewed efforts to ease tensions over the long-standing and politically sensitive issue of fishermen inadvertently crossing maritime boundaries.
As Prime Minister Modi joined Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in Anuradhapura to inaugurate two India-supported railway projects, the release of the fishermen emerged as a powerful act of diplomacy, blending politics with compassion.
A Gesture Rooted in Dialogue and Humanity
The humanitarian release follows extensive discussions held on Saturday between Modi and Dissanayake, where the livelihoods of coastal communities featured prominently. At a press interaction in Colombo, Modi, speaking in Hindi, emphasized the shared understanding that a humane approach is vital in resolving issues concerning fishermen detained across borders.
“We agreed that we should proceed with a humane approach in this matter,” said Modi.
“We also emphasised the immediate release of the fishermen and their boats.”
India has consistently advocated for the rights and well-being of its fishermen, particularly those from Tamil Nadu, who make up the majority of those arrested in recent years. Sri Lankan authorities have detained approximately 140 Indian fishermen so far in 2025, citing allegations of illegal poaching in their waters. Tamil Nadu’s state leadership has repeatedly urged the central government to prioritize diplomatic engagement for their release.
Turning the Tide Through Dialogue
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, speaking to media in Colombo, confirmed that the fishermen issue was discussed in “considerable detail” during the bilateral talks. Modi, he said, emphasized adopting a “humanitarian and constructive approach,” recognizing that these are individuals trying to earn their daily bread, not criminals.
“The prime minister emphasised that at the end of the day, it is a daily issue for the fishermen,” Misri said.
“Certain actions taken in recent times could be reconsidered.”
Recent years have seen heightened tensions in the narrow Palk Strait — the watery divide between Tamil Nadu and northern Sri Lanka. Some confrontations have turned violent, with the Sri Lankan Navy accused of using force during apprehensions. A particularly troubling incident in January saw five Indian fishermen injured by gunfire, sparking strong diplomatic protest from India.
Recognizing the volatility, both nations have agreed to intensify discussions through established institutional frameworks. The India-Sri Lanka Joint Working Group on Fisheries met in October last year, and Coast Guard-level talks continue to explore better mechanisms for repatriation and prevention.
Plans are underway to convene the next round of Fishermen’s Association Talks, aiming to reduce confrontation and promote mutual understanding.
Beyond Borders: Economic Challenges and Strategic Partnerships
While the fishermen issue dominated headlines, broader economic concerns also featured in Saturday’s bilateral discussions. The two leaders addressed the impact of reciprocal tariffs imposed by the United States—a policy legacy of the Trump administration—on Sri Lankan exports, particularly garments, which make up over $1.5 billion in annual trade with the US.
The tariffs, currently set at 44%, pose significant challenges to Sri Lanka’s post-crisis recovery. Dissanayake highlighted the pressing need for stronger economic ties with India, noting that a robust regional partnership is vital for withstanding global headwinds.
“The impact of such geoeconomic developments on Sri Lanka necessitates deeper economic collaboration with India,” Misri quoted the Sri Lankan President as saying.
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