Chennai, May 5 || Country boat fishers in Seruthur and Vellapallam in the Nagapattinam district of Tamil Nadu, remained ashore for the third consecutive day on Monday, protesting a mid-sea attack allegedly carried out by Sri Lankan sea pirates.
The attack occurred near the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) on May 2.
According to reports, over 20 fishermen from Vedaranyam, Seruthur, and Akkaraipettai, who ventured out in four groups, were assaulted by armed men suspected to be Sri Lankan pirates. The attackers looted fishing nets, equipment, and other valuables before fleeing.
Several injured fishermen are currently receiving treatment at Nagapattinam Government Medical College Hospital.
In protest, more than 600 country boats were anchored along the shore for the second day on Sunday, with fishers vowing to continue their strike until both the state and Union governments take concrete steps to ensure their safety at sea.
DMK MP A. Raja visited the injured fishermen on Sunday, providing relief materials and pledging government support.
“Tamil Nadu is fully committed to enhancing maritime security, but the Union government must act decisively,” he stated, adding that he would raise the matter directly with the Prime Minister.