Swamy discusses Tamil Nadu fishermen issue with Rajapaksa

Former union minister and BJP leader Subramanian Swamy met Sri Lankan President Mahinada Rajapaksa today and raised the issue of Tamil Nadu fishermen held in the country's jails.

 

The meeting took place at Rajapaksa's residence and Sri Lanka's Minister for Foreign Affairs G L Peiris and Finance Minister Amunugama were also present.

 

Rajapaksa assured Swamy that he would ensure all fishermen who had been produced before a magistrate to be released immediately.

 

However, Rajapaksa said the trawlers the fishermen came in will not be released as he alleged that the owners were exploiting the fishermen and forcing them to fish in Sri Lankan waters causing resentment among native fishermen.

 

The two leaders also discussed the state of bilateral ties.

 

Currently, there are 114 Indian fishermen and 21 fishing boats in Sri Lankan custody held over various periods of up to two months.