Expressing concern over the frequent arrests of Indian fishermen by the Sri Lankan navy, Tamil Nadu chief minister J Jayalalithaa on Tuesday said India could not continue to be seen as a mute spectator as the rights of the fisherfolk were repeatedly infringed upon. In a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the chief minister said the issue of harassment and frequent arrests of Tamil Nadu fishermen was an abrogation of their rights in their traditional fishing areas. "This is a livelihood issue of thousands of our fisherfolk and is taking on a huge social and political dimension," she said. On Monday, 24 fishermen who set sail on four boats from Rameswaram fishing base in Ramanathapuram district were arrested and taken to Thalaimannar in Sri Lanka. She said the issue required urgent intervention not merely at a diplomatic level but also at a highest political level. "In the present circumstances, I have no doubt that you would agree that the fishermen issue needs to be placed at the top of the agenda in any interaction with Sri Lanka," Jayalalithaa said, seeking the PM's intervention in securing the safe release of all 78 fishermen and 38 fishing boats, currently in Sri Lankan custody. (The Times of India)
Former State Minister Lohan Ratwatte passed away today while receiving treatment at a private hospital in Colombo, his family said. He was 57. Recently, he was admitted to hospital following an illness.
Among the top news stories reported today were the passing away of former State Minister Lohan Ratwatte, questioning of NPP Leader Wimal Weerawansa by the CID over the remarks he made about the Easter Sunday attack investigations and a protest march held in Borella calling an end to Israel’s continued bombardment of Gaza.
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A NPP MP has proposed that in the event of a dog bite caused by non-vaccinated domesticated pet dog, the owner of the pet should be called to pay for the treatment expenses incurred by the state run hospital.
Two persons reportedly involved in the murder of a resident in Peradeniya following a dispute over a chocolate worth 10 cents has been remanded by the Magistrate when Peradeniya Police produced them in court.
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