Sri Lankan Navy Fires at Indian Fishing Boat, Injuring Two

India has lodged a protest against the Sri Lankan Navy for firing at an Indian fishing boat, injuring two fishermen, while Sri Lanka claims the fishermen were illegally fishing in its waters and acted aggressively toward its naval personnel.

The incident occurred early Tuesday when a Sri Lankan Navy patrol intercepted Indian fishermen near Valvettithurai, Jaffna.

According to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), two fishermen suffered "serious injuries" and are receiving treatment at Jaffna Teaching Hospital, while three others sustained minor injuries. The Sri Lankan Navy, however, stated that the injuries were "slight" and resulted from "accidental fire" during an operation against illegal fishing.

India summoned Sri Lanka’s Acting High Commissioner in New Delhi and raised concerns over the use of force. The MEA emphasized that such actions violate existing agreements between the two countries and called for the humane treatment of fishermen. Meanwhile, Indian consular officials in Jaffna are assisting the detained fishermen.

Sri Lanka’s Navy reported that its Northern Naval Command observed a "cluster of Indian fishing boats" poaching in its waters. When intercepted, the fishermen allegedly attempted to "assault naval officers" and "snatch a firearm," leading to an "accidental" discharge. The patrol seized a fishing boat and arrested 13 Indian fishermen from Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. The arrested fishermen were taken to Kankesanthurai Harbour and handed over to local fisheries authorities for further legal action.

This latest incident highlights the long-standing fisheries dispute in the Palk Strait, where Indian fishermen frequently face arrest for entering Sri Lankan waters. In 2024, over 540 Indian fishermen were detained, and in January 2025 alone, more than 60 have been arrested. Sri Lankan fishermen have repeatedly called for an end to bottom trawling by Indian boats, which they argue harms marine life and their livelihoods.

The issue was recently discussed during Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s visit to New Delhi in December 2024. Both leaders agreed to avoid violence and seek a long-term resolution through dialogue. However, recurring confrontations between Indian fishermen and Sri Lanka’s Navy continue to strain bilateral ties.