Fishermen boycotts fishing protesting SL minister's remarks

Local fishermen today boycotted fishing to protest the reported remarks by Sri Lankan minister Duglas Devananda that stern action would be taken against Indian fishermen if they indulged in fishing in the island nation's waters.
Fishermens' Organisation president S Emerite said Duglas had reportedly said at Neduntheevu in Sri Lanka yesterday that stern action would be taken against Indian fishermen, if they are found poaching in Sri Lankan Waters.
The minister had also instructed the Sri Lankan Navy to arrest Tamil Nadu fishermen who crossed the IMBL, he said.
He said fishermen of the island nation had earlier requested the Sri Lankan government not to allow fishermen from other countries to fish in Sri Lankan waters.

Meanwhile, official sources said six boats of Sri Lankan navy has been stationed near IMBL in Sri Lankan waters.