(a) the total length of the maritime border adjoining the State of Tamil Nadu (TN);
(b) whether fishermen from TN fishing in these areas are attacked by Sri Lankan Navy;
(c) if so, the total number of fishermen attacked during the last three years; and
(d) the long term measures taken by the Government to protect them?
MINISTER OF DEFENCE (SHRI MANOHAR PARRIKAR)
(a) 1100 Kms (approximately).
(b) to (d): From time to time, there are reports of incidents of attack on Indian fishermen, allegedly by the Sri Lankan Navy. Government attaches the highest importance to the safety, security and welfare of Indian fishermen. Whenever any such incidents of attack and consequent detention of our fishermen by the Sri Lankan authorities are reported, Government through diplomatic channels, immediately takes up the matter with the Government of Sri Lanka to ensure that the Sri Lankan authorities act with restraint and our fishermen are treated in a humane and pragmatic manner and are released expeditiously. Government is steadfastly working, in close cooperation, with the relevant stakeholders in finding a long term solution to this issue. Meanwhile, Government continues to remain engaged with the Government of Sri Lanka so as to ensure that fishermen on both sides can continue to pursue their livelihood in a safe, secure and sustainable manner. The details of Indian fishermen who have been detained and released by Sri Lanka on charges of alleged fishery related violations during the last three years are given below:
2012 2013 2014 (as on 15.12. 2014) Detained 197 Detained 676 Detained 787 (all released) (all released) (706 released)