Lankan Naval firing: Fishermen keep away from sea

Ramewaram, Tamil Nadu, Mar 12 (UNI) Thousands of fishermen of this temple town kept away from the sea in protest against recent killings of innocent Indian fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy off the coast of Tamil Nadu.

Police sources told UNI here the fishermen who had launched an instant protest in the aftermath of the killing of a fisherman, Christopher, on March 10, decided to stay away from the seas today to draw the government's attention to the continuous attacks.

The agitation was also to urge the government to take immediate steps to prevent recurring attacks on Indian fishermen whose livelihood was dependent on the catches from the sea.

The fisherfolk and representatives of fishermen unions assembled on seafront in this temple town and staged a demonstration.

They have also resolved to observe a day's fast tomorrow before Taluk offices and post offices to condemn the incidents.

Two fishermen hailing from Pamban in this island were gunned down by the Lankan Navy in the last ten days while they were fishing near Katchatheevu creating fear psychosis among the fishing community.

Besides, several fishermen were injured and their boats damaged in frequent attacks over the last fortnight.

UNI