MPs demand taking back Katchativu islands from Sri Lanka

New Delhi, Mar 11 (UNI) Several members in Rajya Sabha today made an impassioned plea to the Centre to take steps to restore the rights of Tamil Nadu fishermen in Kachativu island, given away to Sri Lanka under an international agreement.

Raising the issue as a Zero Hour mention, Mr V Narayanasamy, Congress, brought to the notice of the House regarding the killing of a fisherman and arrest of 47 on March five by the Sri Lankan Navy.

Indian fishermen are beaten badly by the Sri Lankan authorities despite having the fishing rights. ''India should deploy its Coast Guards and protect the Indian fishermen from straying into international waters,'' he said.

He said Indian fishermen under the agreement can dry their nets and visit church in Katchativu and if the Sri Lanka defied agreement conditions than India should take back the island, he demanded.

Mr Samy's demand evoked support from Tamil Nadu MPs of various political parties including Mr D Raja (CPI) and AIADMK.

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