New Delhi: An Indian fisherman was killed and another is missing following a collision between a Sri Lankan naval vessel and an Indian fishing boat early Thursday morning, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The incident occurred five nautical miles north of Katchatheevu Island.
The MEA reported that the collision happened in the early hours of Thursday. Out of the four Indian fishermen aboard the vessel, one was confirmed dead and another is still unaccounted for. The two surviving fishermen have been rescued and brought to shore at Kankesanthurai.
The MEA has expressed profound “shock and anguish” over the tragic loss of life. The Indian government has formally lodged a strong protest with Sri Lanka through the acting high commissioner, calling for a thorough investigation into the incident.
In response to the collision, Indian officials have been active in providing assistance. The Indian Consulate in Jaffna has been instructed to promptly attend to the survivors and their families, offering necessary support and facilitating the search for the missing fisherman.
The Indian High Commissioner in Colombo is scheduled to address the matter with Sri Lankan authorities later today, ensuring that the gravity of the situation is communicated and that appropriate measures are taken. A search operation is currently underway to locate the missing fisherman. The MEA has assured that all possible resources and support are being provided to locate and rescue the missing individual.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions and the complex dynamics in maritime interactions between India and Sri Lanka. Both nations are expected to work closely to resolve the matter and prevent future occurrences.