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Sri Lanka transforms economy to attract Foreign Investments and boost Growth

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Sri Lanka transforms economy to attract Foreign Investments and boost Growth

By: Staff Writer

September 10 (LNW): Sri Lanka has established a robust regulatory framework to enhance its competitiveness in attracting foreign investments within the Asian region.

The government’s recent enactment of the Economic Transformation Bill marks a significant step toward preventing future economic crises and securing long-term development goals.

 This legislation sets clear targets for the country’s growth, ensuring that Sri Lanka will not face similar economic hardships again, according to Dr. Bandula Gunawardena, the Minister of Transport, Highways, and Mass Media.

The Economic Transformation Bill is designed to facilitate rapid national development through both public and private sector initiatives. It mandates adherence to specific targets, setting the stage for substantial structural changes that will enhance Sri Lanka’s economic competitiveness.

 The act aims to secure a high standard of living for citizens, with continuous improvements in living conditions and greater access to leisure and cultural opportunities.

A key component of this legislation is its focus on transforming Sri Lanka into a highly competitive, export-driven digital economy. This transformation involves deep structural reforms that are expected to elevate the nation’s economic standing on the global stage.

The bill introduces a comprehensive national policy to achieve this goal, including the establishment of several key institutions such as the Economic Commission of Sri Lanka, Investment Zones, the Office for International Trade, the National Productivity Commission, and the Sri Lanka Institute of Economics and International Trade.

 Furthermore, it repeals the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka Law No. 4 of 1978 and related statutes to streamline the investment framework.

The government has set ambitious targets to achieve under this legislation, such as reaching net zero emissions by 2050, integrating more closely with the global economy, maintaining stable macroeconomic balances, and ensuring sustainable debt levels.

 Another focus is modernizing agriculture to increase productivity, enhance farmer incomes, and boost agricultural exports, all while promoting inclusive economic growth and social progress.

The Cabinet of Ministers is responsible for ensuring the achievement of these targets, which include a GDP growth rate of 5% annually by 2027, reducing unemployment to below 5% by 2025, and increasing female labor force participation to at least 40% by 2030 and 50% by 2040.

Additionally, the act aims to keep the current account deficit of the Balance of Payments below 1% of GDP annually and increase exports to 25% of GDP by 2025, 40% by 2030, and 60% by 2040.

The government anticipates net Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to reach at least 5% of GDP by 2030, with 40% of GDP generated from exports of goods and services.

The primary balance of the government is expected to be 2.3% of GDP until 2032, with a target of maintaining at least 2% thereafter. Government revenue is projected to exceed 15% of GDP post-2027, while the multidimensional poverty headcount ratio is targeted to drop below 15% by 2027 and under 10% by 2035.

Minister Gunawardena assured that all necessary economic measures have been taken to transform the fiscal and monetary landscape, indicating that no further reforms are required at this stage. However, there are plans for new legislation and revisions to existing laws, particularly focusing on structural reforms in executive and administrative sectors.

This includes laws on public finance, procurement, public-private partnerships, state enterprises, and offshore economic activities, highlighting the government’s commitment to modernizing governance, transparency, and accountability.

As part of this transformation, three new laws have been enacted to manage finances, debt, and the economy, along with two additional pieces of legislation aimed at combating corruption and streamlining state procurement processes.

These include the Public Financial Management Act, Public Debt Management Act, Economic Transformation Act, Anti-corruption Act, and Public Procurement Act.

Sri Lanka’s legislative transformation is poised to establish the country as a highly competitive, export-oriented digital economy with strong global economic integration, aiming for sustainable development and prosperity in the coming decades.

The Presidential Candidate is More Important than the Team  

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The Presidential Candidate is More Important than the Team  

By Adolf

The SJB campaign focuses on promoting their team, but in doing so, the Presidential Candidate Sajith Premadasa is diluting his value. In addition his team needs to get elected at a general election later in the year or in 2025. In contrast, Anura Kumara Dissanayake and the incumbent President are promoting themselves as the central figures of their campaigns. The President has a track record of accomplishments to highlight, while Anura speaks primarily about corruption, despite having had ample time during the Yahapalana Government to address it—yet he did not. 

Premadasa’s campaign is heavily reliant on Harsha de Silva and Eran Wickramaratne, both of whom were part of the Yahapalana Government and failed to deliver. On the other hand, the President’s results are clear and visible. The one area where the President has fallen short is in taking decisive action against corruption, though he claims to have now put the necessary laws in place. 

The individual who holds the Sri Lankan presidency is critical for several reasons, all rooted in the unique powers and responsibilities of the office. The chaos that ensued when Sirisena and Rajapaksa, two incapable individuals, were elected to high office based on emotion is a stark reminder of this. 

Why is voting for the individual so important?

Voters must remain objective and avoid making irrational, emotionally driven choices. Here’s why:

1. Executive Power: The President has significant control over the executive branch, making decisions that influence everything from foreign policy to domestic regulations. The individual’s judgment, experience, and leadership style greatly affect how these powers are exercised.

2. Commander-in-Chief; As the leader of the armed forces, the President’s decisions regarding war and peace are critical. A President’s temperament, understanding of global affairs, and crisis management skills are essential in these high-stakes situations.

3. Legislative Influence; Although not a lawmaker, the President can shape legislation through veto power, executive orders, and setting the national agenda. The President’s ability to work with Parliament, communicate effectively with the public, and navigate political challenges often determines the success of their policy goals.

4. Public Symbolism; The President is the face of the nation, representing its values, ideals, and direction. The individual’s character, moral standing, and public persona can impact national unity and the country’s global image.

5. Crisis Leadership; In times of national crisis—whether it’s natural disasters, economic downturns, or pandemics—the President’s ability to lead, inspire, and take quick, decisive action is crucial. The effectiveness of the response often depends on the President’s leadership qualities.

6. Judicial Appointments: The President nominates judges to the judiciary, including the Supreme Court. These lifetime appointments can shape the legal landscape for decades, making the President’s judicial philosophy deeply impactful.

7. International Relations: The President plays a key role in diplomacy, building relationships with other nations, and representing Sri Lanka in international organizations. The individual’s diplomatic skills, understanding of global issues, and strategic vision can affect international stability and the country’s global standing.

In essence, while government structures provide checks and balances, the personal attributes of the President—such as integrity, intelligence, decisiveness, and empathy—can significantly influence the country’s direction and its place in the world. As Thomas Jefferson said, “The government you elect is the government you deserve.”

Sri Lanka Original Narrative Summary: 09/09

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Sri Lanka Original Narrative Summary: 09/09

  1. President Ranil Wickremesinghe announces plans to abolish the line room system and provide plantation workers with free land rights, aiming to modernise their living conditions: highlights reforms during his presidency, emphasises the risks of rival candidates’ economic proposals, and outlines a strategy for an export-driven economy to boost foreign reserves.
  2. Sajith Premadasa, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya presidential candidate, pledges impartial judicial appointments, prioritising the rule of law over personal influence: also outlines a comprehensive asset recovery plan to retrieve stolen assets for public benefit: assures that fairness and integrity would guide his decisions if elected.
  3. NPP presidential candidate Anura Kumara Dissanayake responds to President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s allegation of him making ‘racially provocative’ comments at a rally in Jaffna, stating that it is Wickremesinghe who should apologise to the northern people for allegedly inciting racism: criticises Wickremesinghe for attempting to stir racial tensions in the election and thanks TNA MP M.A. Sumanthiran for addressing the issue: asserts that the era of divisive, racially charged politics in Sri Lanka is over.
  4. Former SJB MP Thalatha Athukorala, who recently resigned from Parliament, pledges her support to President Ranil Wickremesinghe in the upcoming Presidential Election: also attends a rally for the President in Welimada: Athukorala, elected in 2020 with 45,105 votes from the Ratnapura District, has been a parliamentarian since 2004, consistently winning re-election.
  5. Election Commission Chairman R.M.A.L. Ratnayake emphasises door-to-door canvassing for presidential candidates is limited to five individuals distributing leaflets: highlights restrictions on political marches during campaigns and clarifies that only candidates’ vehicles may display campaign stickers: Violations of these rules, including unauthorised vehicle displays, are against election laws.
  6. Commissioner General of Examinations Amith Jayasundara requests presidential candidates and supporters to avoid using loudspeakers or holding rallies near examination centres on 15 September, from 9.30 am to 12.15 pm, during the Year 5 Scholarship Examination: The Police Department has been notified, with 323,879 candidates expected to sit the exam at 2,849 centres across Sri Lanka.
  7. Sri Lanka earns over $2 billion from tourism in the first eight months of 2024, a 66.1% increase from 2023, with 1.36 million tourists arriving, up by 50.7%: In August alone, arrivals rose by 20% compared to the previous year: Tourism remains a key revenue source, with 3 million visitors expected in 2025.
  8. Agriculture Minister Mahinda Amaraweera announces the government will provide farmers a 50kg bag of urea fertiliser at Rs. 4,000 for the 2024 Maha season, down from Rs. 42,000 in 2022: details plans to increase fertiliser subsidies and secure 55,000 metric tons of MOP fertiliser through the World Food Program for future seasons.
  9. Sri Lanka’s worker remittances increase by 15.7% in August 2024, reaching $577.5 million, enabling the Central Bank to repay $450 million to the Reserve Bank of India: By the end of August, remittances totalled $4.28 billion, up from $3.86 billion in 2023: Remittances, a key foreign exchange source, have risen since abandoning the parallel exchange rate regime in 2022.
  10. Sri Lanka Customs achieves record revenue of Rs. 1 trillion in the first eight months of 2024, surpassing previous records: This success is attributed to the department’s operational independence and reforms: Director General Sarath Nonis is confident of meeting the IMF’s annual target of Rs. 1.534 trillion, despite a decline in car import revenue due to restrictions.

Litro Gas Lanka supports Sri Lanka’s Ceramics and Glass Industries

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Litro Gas Lanka supports Sri Lanka’s Ceramics and Glass Industries

By: Staff Writer

September 08, Colombo (LNW): Litro Gas Lanka Ltd., the leading LP Gas provider in Sri Lanka, recently highlighted its crucial role in supporting the ceramics and glass industries during a technical session at the 18th Annual General Meeting of the Sri Lanka Ceramics and Glass Council (SLCGC) at The Kingsbury Colombo.

Sponsored by Litro Gas, the session focused on energy efficiency, sustainability, and innovation in these key sectors. Litro’s dedication to ensuring a steady energy supply and its collaborative approach underscores its commitment to the growth of energy-intensive industries, especially during challenging economic times.

The AGM also welcomed Aravinda Perera as the new President for the 2024/2025 term, who brings valuable experience and insight to the role. During the session, Jaisinh Sampat, Chairman of Pune Gas India and Lanka Gastech, stressed the importance of energy conservation for future competitiveness and highlighted the shift towards sustainable energy practices in the industry.

The ceramics and glass sector, a significant contributor to Sri Lanka’s export earnings, has shown remarkable resilience despite economic challenges. Litro Gas has played a vital role in maintaining stability in production operations during financial crises, enabling manufacturers to meet international demand and sustain exports.

Muditha Pieris, CEO-Chairman of Litro Gas Lanka, emphasized the company’s priority in supporting industries like ceramics and glass, recognizing their importance to the national economy. Litro Gas continues to provide a consistent energy supply and technical support to ensure uninterrupted production and growth.

Litro’s participation in the event reaffirms its commitment to large-scale industries and its leadership in promoting innovative and sustainable energy solutions. Through its robust network and strategic industry partnerships, Litro Gas is well-equipped to support businesses with resilient supply chains and advanced energy management strategies, reinforcing its status as a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s energy sector.

The technical session also explored the future of energy usage within the industry, with discussions centred on long-term trends and emerging technologies. Litro Gas Lanka, with its robust network and extensive industry partnerships, is well-positioned to continue supporting businesses through resilient supply chains and cutting-edge energy management strategies.

Litro’s partnership with the Sri Lanka Ceramics and Glass Council is yet another testament to the company’s vision of powering progress across industries, reaffirming their status as the backbone of Sri Lanka’s energy sector.

FTZMA urges BOI to resolve issuance of business visas for investors

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FTZMA urges BOI to resolve issuance of business visas for investors

By: Staff Writer

September 08, Colombo (LNW): BOI companies will face operational challenges to bring in investors, partners, stakeholders, potentially jeopardising their businesses It asserts move has also caused confusion among tourism industry stakeholders

Free Trade Zone Manufacturers Association (FTZMA) expressed disappointment with the lack of support from the Board of Investment (BOI) in resolving the issuance of business visas for investors and called for immediate action.

In a letter addressed to the BOI Chairman, FTZMA highlighted that following a Supreme Court determination, obtaining a business visa through a VFS service provider has been suspended for an indefinite period.

It is against this backdrop, the Government had earlier decided to ensure international visitors do not face any inconvenience when obtaining relevant business visas through the Sri Lanka missions overseas in the absence of an online visa platform.

“This method has been working perfectly for all BOI enterprises so far. However we note with disappointment as to why this facility has been suspended by the Government,” they added.

The association highlighted that business visas for foreign nationals who visit the country are now forced to obtain tourist visas from a facility available at the immigration counters in the arrivals terminal at the airport, as the prior practice of foreign missions issuing business visas from the origin country has also been halted.

“The BOI must intervene in this matter immediately by liaising with the relevant authorities to resume business visa issuance through the overseas Sri Lankan missions as they have done before,” they stated.

They pointed out that the suspension has also caused confusion among tourism industry stakeholders, who had previously assured travel agents and international partners that both business and tourist visas could be secured before arrival.

FTZMA warned of two potential repercussions if the situation remains unresolved: Foreign nationals who intend to visit Sri Lanka solely for business purposes will be deterred from entering on a tourist visa, and

BOI companies will face operational challenges as they struggle to bring in investors, partners, and stakeholders, potentially jeopardising their businesses.

“We have been approached by many of our member organisations by making complaints about their displeasure with this change thus resulting in a deadlock to those who are genuinely visiting the country for business purposes, particularly shareholders, directors, buyers, vendors and trainers who are coming on a business visa to our member companies.

If they arrive for business on a tourist visa that is a violation of immigration regulations in the country thus creating a dreadful situation for our investors,” they stressed.

Therefore, the FTZMA strongly recommended the BOI being the facilitator, to create a conducive environment for investors to do their business with ease.

Sri Lanka Customs Strategic Reforms and Innovation helps achieving  revenue targets

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Sri Lanka Customs Strategic Reforms and Innovation helps achieving  revenue targets

By: Staff Writer

September 08, Colombo (LNW): Looking ahead, the Sri Lanka Customs (SLC) strategic plan is focused on overcoming challenges while ensuring revenue generation, streamlining operations, and adhering to international standards. Guidance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF),

 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and a deep understanding of global trade dynamics will inform future initiatives. The upcoming launch of the ASYHUB system in 2024 underscores the SLC’s commitment to technological progress.

Over the next five years, the SLC’s strategic focus will center on four key areas: revenue generation, eco-social protection, trade facilitation, and organizational development.

By aligning with global standards, fostering innovation, and tackling challenges head-on, the SLC aims to become a resilient and efficient customs administration, even amidst economic uncertainties.

In an unprecedented achievement, Sri Lanka Customs has recorded a revenue of Rs. 1 trillion within the first eight months of this year.

This remarkable accomplishment is credited to the autonomy granted to the administrative authority and officials, allowing them to operate without external interference.

The IMF has set a revenue target of Rs. 1,534 billion for 2024. With Rs. 1 trillion already achieved, Director General of Customs, Sarath Nonis, expressed confidence that the annual target can be surpassed within the remaining four months of the year. He noted that the previous highest revenue was Rs. 975 billion in 2023.

Director General Sarath Nonis emphasized that the department’s success is due to its independence and the new operational methods and advanced technical processes introduced over the past two years.

These reforms have allowed the department to streamline operations effectively. He also credited the entire customs staff for their dedication in fighting fraud, corruption, and smuggling.

 Additionally, the department continues to refine its administrative activities through an annual action plan, ensuring regular updates and quality improvements in customs procedures.

This success has been supported by the leadership and guidance of President Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as Finance, Economic Stabilization, and National Policies Minister, along with contributions from State Ministers of Finance, Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, and Shehan Semasinghe.

Sri Lanka’s tourist arrivals in August 2024 fall short of the monthly target

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Sri Lanka’s tourist arrivals in August 2024 fall short of the monthly target

By: Staff Writer

September 08, Colombo (LNW): Taking inspiration from Singapore, the Sri Lankan government has announced the immediate implementation of a visa-free policy for travelers from 38 countries. This move comes after a month of issuing visas on arrival, following the suspension of the country’s e-Visa system due to management issues with a foreign consortium.

To simplify entry procedures and boost tourism, Sri Lanka recently launched a visa-free initiative for citizens of 35 countries, effective from October 1, 2024. As the country continues to explore options such as e-Visas, Electronic Travel Authorizations (ETAs), or free Visas on Arrival, it has now introduced another measure to ease entry for international visitors.

On September 2, Sri Lanka’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ali Sabry, announced via X (formerly Twitter) that the Cabinet has authorized the President to implement visa-free access for 38 nationalities immediately, adopting a streamlined approach similar to Singapore’s.

This decision aims to alleviate congestion at visa counters, as recent reports from Sri Lankan media indicate long queues at the visa on arrival counters at Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport.

Despite these efforts, Sri Lanka’s tourist arrivals in August fell significantly short of the monthly target, marking the largest gap observed this year. Provisional data from the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) shows a 20.7% year-on-year increase in arrivals, with 164,609 visitors in August.

However, this number was still 38,298 short of the projected 202,907 arrivals for the month. Year-to-date (YTD) tourist arrivals have reached 1.36 million.

The shortfall exceeded the previous largest gap recorded in June, which was also impacted by visa-related issues.

Although the first half of August showed promise with an average of 6,545 daily arrivals, the momentum dropped sharply in the latter half, with a low of 2,804 arrivals on August 28. The daily arrival average for August was 5,310, down from July’s 6,058.

India remains the largest source of tourists, with 33,031 arrivals in August, followed by the UK with 17,587 and China with 11,333. Germany and Italy also ranked among the top five, with Russia returning to the top 10 markets, contributing 4,351 visitors.

India continues to lead as the top source market for the year, with 258,672 arrivals, while the UK surpassed Russia to take the second spot with 127,776 visitors. Russia is now in third place with 123,033 arrivals.

For 2024, Sri Lanka has set a goal to attract 2.3 million tourists and generate over $4 billion in revenue.

AKD responds to President’s allegations involving comments in Jaffna, blames President for stirring division

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AKD responds to President’s allegations involving comments in Jaffna, blames President for stirring division

September 08, Colombo (LNW): National People’s Power (NPP) leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake has responded to accusations of making threatening comments towards the Northern population during a recent visit to Jaffna.

Dismissing the criticism, Dissanayake pointed to Tamil National Alliance (TNA) spokesperson MP MA Sumanthiran’s defence as the ‘definitive response’ to the controversy.

The NPP’s Presidential Candidate emphasised that he sees no need to answer Wickremesinghe’s accusations, asserting that Sumanthiran has already provided the correct explanation.

“It is Ranil who should apologise for attempting to incite racial tensions,” Dissanayake alleged, revising the blame on the President, whom he accused of exploiting the situation to sow division.

The controversy arose following Dissanayake’s remarks during a public address in Jaffna, which were interpreted by some, most notably including President Wickremesinghe, as a veiled threat to the Tamil community.

Wickremesinghe had publicly called on Dissanayake to apologise to the Northern people, accusing him of coercive rhetoric.

However, TNA MP Sumanthiran earlier came to Dissanayake’s defence, asserting that the remarks were not racially motivated and praising Dissanayake for his consistent commitment to eradicating racism in the country.

Dissanayake’s rebuttal signals a continuation of tensions between the NPP leader and the government, particularly with Wickremesinghe, who has been vocally critical of Dissanayake’s political approach.

Meanwhile, Sumanthiran’s support for Dissanayake, despite the TNA’s pledged allegiance to the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), has sparked dialogue within political circles about the future of alliances and how opposition leaders will navigate complex ethnic and regional dynamics during the upcoming election.

This incident has underscored the often-fragile relationship between political figures in Sri Lanka and the sensitivities surrounding ethnicity, particularly in the Northern region, which has long been at the heart of the nation’s conflict and post-war reconciliation efforts.

It also highlights the potential for such disputes to escalate into larger debates about racial politics, leadership, and the direction of national unity in the country’s future.

Related stories:

Sumanthiran defends AKD amidst allegedly ‘racially provocative’ remarks in the North
RW vows full legal protection for Northern communities amidst development plans

TISL mounts alarm over misuse of public resources in 2024 Presidential Polls

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TISL mounts alarm over misuse of public resources in 2024 Presidential Polls

September 08, Colombo (LNW): Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL) has expressed grave concerns regarding the misuse of public resources during the lead-up to the 2024 Presidential Election.

As of Wednesday (04) TISL has received 580 complaints, urging the Election Commission of Sri Lanka (ECSL) to intervene decisively and ensure the election process remains fair and transparent.

TISL has flagged alarming reports of government vehicles, including those from the Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) and the Sri Lanka Air Force, being employed for election campaign activities.

In pursuit of transparency, TISL has lodged Right to Information (RTI) requests with the relevant authorities, seeking full disclosure regarding the use of these public assets.

Another significant concern raised by TISL is the involvement of public officials, particularly senior officers who are legally barred from participating in political activities, actively engaging in election campaigning.

Some of these officers have been seen publicly supporting political parties, both in person and through social media platforms.

TISL has formally complained to the ECSL and the heads of the institutions involved, calling for these officials to be reconsidered for election-related duties to avoid any potential conflicts of interest.

During a press briefing at TISL’s Nawala office, Executive Director Nadishani Perera highlighted several recent government initiatives that she suggested were politically motivated.

“The timing of decisions, such as writing off crop loans for farmers and incorporating school development officers into the teaching service, raises concerns. While we agree that these measures are beneficial, announcing them during an election campaign is a blatant misuse of power meant to sway the electorate,” she explained.

Ms. Perera urged citizens to remain vigilant and avoid allowing their votes to be influenced by political manoeuvring.

“Candidates must understand that their behaviour during this election will define their leadership. The public is watching closely.”

TISL’s Programme for Protecting Public Resources also raised concerns about the ongoing misuse of government communication channels. Thushanie Kandilpana, National Coordinator for the programme, acknowledged the swift response of the ECSL to many complaints but insisted more needed to be done.

“We’ve seen persistent misuse of the President’s Media Division (PMD) for promoting a particular candidate. This type of conduct threatens the integrity of the election, and we call on the ECSL to step in without delay,” she emphasised.

Ms. Perera reiterated the importance of a fair electoral process for the future of Sri Lanka, saying, “The citizens’ ability to live in dignity, enjoy their rights, and secure economic stability depends on the integrity of this election. They deserve the chance to choose their leaders without undue influence.”

TISL has called upon citizens to report any further misuse of public resources via their dedicated website, www.apesalli.lk, or the hotline 0763223442. Vigilance from the public is seen as essential in preserving the fairness of the election and maintaining trust in Sri Lanka’s democratic process.

In conclusion, Senior Programme Manager, Gowriswaran Kirupairajah, called on both the public and the media to shine a spotlight on these issues and ensure that all actors involved in the election are held accountable for their actions during this critical time.

Protests erupt in Tamil Nadu following arrest of fishermen by Sri Lankan Navy

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Protests erupt in Tamil Nadu following arrest of fishermen by Sri Lankan Navy

September 08, Colombo (LNW): Families of fishermen in Jegathapattinam, Tamil Nadu, staged protests on Sunday following the arrest of 14 local fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy, which also seized three mechanised boats.

The arrests took place on Saturday (07) night, sparking outrage within the fishing community, particularly in the Pudukottai district.

K.R. Manikantan, a local fishing leader, voiced the frustrations of the community, stating that the frequent arrests by the Sri Lankan Navy have left the fishermen in constant fear of venturing out to sea.

“Our livelihoods are at stake. The state and Central governments are ignoring the severe challenges we face,” he said.

He highlighted that whilst fishermen might be released after brief custody, the Sri Lankan authorities often hold on to their boats indefinitely, further exacerbating the crisis.

“Even after release, getting back our boats remains an impossible task, making it difficult for us to resume fishing,” Manikantan added.

The incident took place near the disputed waters of Neduntheevu in the Palk Strait, where the fishermen were accused of crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL).

The arrested fishermen, including Pradeep, Ranjith, Prabakaran, and Ajith, were aboard three boats owned by local residents. They, along with 49 other fishermen, had ventured into the sea early on Saturday.

In response, the Tamil Nadu coastal police confirmed that the detained fishermen were transferred to the Kankesanthurai naval base in Sri Lanka.

The ongoing arrests have fuelled mounting tensions, with protests spreading to other coastal districts like Ramanathapuram, Nagapattinam, and Pudukottai.

The fishing community is also threatening to block major roads in protest, calling on both the state and national governments to intervene and secure the release of the arrested fishermen.

This incident has further intensified the long-standing dispute over fishing rights in the Palk Strait, an issue that has repeatedly strained relations between the fishermen of Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka.

Currently, around 84 Tamil Nadu fishermen remain in Sri Lankan custody, underscoring the dire need for a resolution to the conflict, which continues to affect the livelihoods of thousands along the Tamil Nadu coast.

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