R. Sudha, a Congress MP recently elected from the Mayiladuthurai constituency in India, has requested Sri Lanka’s newly elected President, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, to utilize his sovereign presidential powers to order the release of all Indian fishermen currently detained in Sri Lankan jails. She emphasized that this act of goodwill would significantly bolster his stated objective of steering Sri Lanka in a new direction.
In a heartfelt letter addressed to Dissanayake, the Indian MP urged him to not only release the fishermen but also return their boats in good, usable condition as a symbol of goodwill. She expressed hope that such a gesture would enhance the strength of his commitment to transforming the nation.
Sudha pointed out that a positive first step could involve the release of the 37 fishermen from her constituency, noting that an additional 80 fishermen and 173 fishing boats are also under Sri Lankan custody.
She remarked, “India shares maritime boundaries with several nations, including a belligerent neighbor like Pakistan. However, no other country arrests, fines, damages, and attacks fishermen from neighboring countries as frequently as Sri Lanka does. The provocations from the Sri Lankan side occur far too often, testing the patience and peace in the region. Fishermen should not be treated as criminals for fishing in shared waters like the Bay of Bengal.”
Sudha acknowledged past grievances but urged, “Now that you are at the helm, promising a fresh beginning, new outlook, and prosperity for your nation, I request you to use your sovereign presidential powers.”
Source: Deccan Chronicle
