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Arrest of Indian fishermen only present solution to Indo-Lanka fishermen row: Douglas

Says even willing to out to sea himself to stop the Indian fishermen

21 April 2021 06:07 am - 10     - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

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Fisheries Minister, Douglas Devananda who was in the midst of controversy last week for allegedly claiming that Indian fishermen would be granted permission to fish in Sri Lankan waters has denied the claims stating that the present solution to resolve the Indo-Lanka fishing issue was to arrest the Indian fishermen.

In an interview with Daily Mirror, Devananda said he was even willing to go to the extent of going out to sea himself to stop the Indian fishermen from entering Sri Lankan waters and especially engaging in bottom trawling which he said was destroying the sea beds.

"The claim that I will grant permits to Indian fishermen to fish in our seas is false. This was only an idea that came to me and not a decision. Presently I have informed the Navy to continue arresting all Indian fishermen who enter our waters and I will not tolerate any form of bottom trawling," Devananda said.

"Whatever ideas which will be implemented will first be discussed with the local fishermen and fishermen organisations. No decision will be taken without consulting them. Even the fishermen are confident that I will not take any decision without consulting them. Many people are misusing my words and making me look like a killer and murderer. But I am not like that," the Minister added. (JAMILA HUSAIN)


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  • Chanaka Abeysinghe Wednesday, 21 April 2021 06:32 AM

    By just arresting indian fisherman and releasing them as soon as the indian government says "release" won't solve the problem! It's just become a joke! So they won't stop coming! Instead, We should, release the men, arrest and destroy their boats and gear! This way, gradually it will lessen the trespassing.

    Ramesh Wednesday, 21 April 2021 06:40 AM

    If you politicians can deliver your messages clearly without mincing why others has to misuse your words.

    AB Wednesday, 21 April 2021 07:43 AM

    Confiscate their equipment and charge a heavy fine something like $2500,that will work

    Lokka Wednesday, 21 April 2021 08:08 AM

    The best way is to destroy their vessels and release fishermen without bringing them here.

    Nimal Wednesday, 21 April 2021 08:27 AM

    Why is TNA silent on this issue?

    Hamid Wednesday, 21 April 2021 08:29 AM

    Even Maldives stick to the rule of law, why we not, this leniency,makes problem worst

    Uali Wednesday, 21 April 2021 10:45 AM

    Minister said about a armed thief, the gunship recently arrived is it arms of thief?

    Sinna Wednesday, 21 April 2021 10:49 AM

    This plunder by force indicates,nothing but uncivilized stone age habits of present day indians(during days of Buddha they were extremely civilized)

    Shan Wednesday, 21 April 2021 11:56 AM

    What are the authorities doing? It's serious and India's corona spread is in serious danger. We cant expect another wave here. Also, ISIS, Indian Thouheed Jamath

    Jeeves Wednesday, 21 April 2021 01:36 PM

    Why not follow Myanmar's recent treatment of Sri Lankan fishermen; jail sentence. No bail and heavy penalties, including confiscating fishing vessels! Above might finally stop Indian fishermen from their present behaviour, which will otherwise continue.


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