In a recent development, a Udupi court has granted bail to seven fishermen from Bhatkal who were accused of robbery and hijacking a fishing boat based in Malpe.
Granting of Bail
The fishermen, namely Santosh Devi Kharvi, Gopal Madev Kharvi, Harish Narayan Kharvi, Subramanya Timappa Kharvi, Raghavendra Manjunath Kharvi, Nagesh Narayan Kharvi (all from Bhatkal Mavinkurwe Bunder), and Laxman Shaniyar Moger of Shirali Alvekodi, were represented by Senior Advocate Ravi Kiran Murdeshwar. Murdeshwar argued in court that the accused had no intention of committing robbery, highlighting that the dispute arose from alleged encroachments by deep-sea fishing boats near the Bhatkal shore. He emphasized the defendants’ roles as providers for their families and their willingness to abide by judicial bail conditions. Consequently, the court granted bail to all seven fishermen.
Background of the Dispute
The conflict stemmed from accusations leveled by Bhatkal fishermen against two fishing boats, namely ‘Krishna Prasad’ from Malpe and ‘Khilriya’ from Mangalore, for operating illegally within a restricted area off the Bhatkal coast on February 27. The fishermen seized these vessels, warning the crew against leaving, and towed them to Mavinkurve harbor.
Allegations and Confrontation
The Bhatkal fishermen had previously reported such incidents to the Coast Guard, seeking action against violations of the restricted zone, but received no response. Frustrated by the lack of enforcement, they captured the two boats involved in the February 27 incident. The owner of the Mangalore boat reached a compromise, but the owner of the Malpe boat, Krishna Prasad, filed a complaint with the Malpe police, resulting in the arrest of the seven Bhatkal fishermen.
Legal Representation and Resolution
Represented by Senior Advocate Ravi Kiran Murdeshwar, the fishermen argued their case in court, leading to the granting of bail. The ongoing dispute underscores the tensions between local fishermen and deep-sea fishing operations encroaching on restricted areas, highlighting broader issues of enforcement and regulation in maritime activities.
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