Protests over shooting of Indian fisherman

Protests have erupted in Tamil Nadu following a 22-year-old Indian fisherman who was shot  allegedly by the Sri Lankan navy while he was fishing in a mechanised boat at a short distance off Katchatheevu islet, the Deccan Chronicle reported.

The incident occurred at Thangachimadam in central Rameswaram of Tamil Nadu,  when the fishermen were fishing near the islet along with others and the Sri Lankan naval personnel arrived at the spot and allegedly opened fire, Fisheries Department Assistant Director Kulanchinathan told the pubication.

Rameswaram Fishermen Association President P Sesuraja said that more than 2,000 fishermen were fishing well within Indian waters when the Sri Lankan naval personnel came to the spot taking them by surprise. The Lankan navy officials did not even fire a warning shot, he alleged.

Meanwhile, tension prevailed in the area as fishermen from Thangachimadam coastal hamlet gathered in front of the hospital to protest the firing by the Sri Lankan navy.

According to reports, people have gathered at the home of the victim in Rameswaram, and his family has refused to accept his body without an assurance of action.

Tamil Nadu government announced Rs 5 lakh for the kin of the dead fisherman and Rs 1 lakh for the fisherman injured in shooting.