Political Call to Reclaim Katchatheevu
Tamil Nadu Assembly Passes Resolution to Reclaim Katchatheevu Island : The Tamil Nadu Assembly passed a resolution urging the Union Government to retrieve Katchatheevu island from Sri Lanka, citing the continued harassment of Indian fishermen. The move received unanimous support from all political parties and was introduced by Chief Minister MK Stalin, reflecting strong local and political sentiment. This decision has reignited a long-standing issue about maritime boundaries and fishermen’s rights in the Palk Strait.
Historical and Legal Background
Katchatheevu is a 285-acre island located in the Palk Strait, between Rameswaram (India) and Jaffna (Sri Lanka). It was formally ceded to Sri Lanka in 1974 through a bilateral agreement signed by then Prime Ministers Indira Gandhi and Sirimavo Bandaranaike. Although India acknowledged Sri Lanka’s sovereignty, the treaty allowed Indian pilgrims to attend the St. Anthony’s festival on the island without a visa, while prohibiting fishing rights in the surrounding waters.
Maritime Agreements and Fishermen’s Rights
The 1974 Maritime Agreement established the maritime boundary in the Palk Strait. It granted sovereign control over respective waters and seabeds, but Indian fishermen were allowed to rest and dry nets on the island. The 1976 agreement further restricted Indian fishing activity, making fishing in Sri Lankan waters illegal, without Tamil Nadu’s consultation. These restrictions have intensified tensions in recent decades, with frequent arrests and boat seizures by the Sri Lankan Navy.
The Ongoing Conflict
Due to declining fish populations and excessive mechanized trawling, Indian fishermen often cross into Sri Lankan waters. In response, Sri Lanka tightened its maritime patrols, citing not only ecological damage but also security threats such as the return of Tamil insurgents post-2009. Despite diplomatic discussions, violent encounters and arrests continue. Tamil Nadu fishermen view Katchatheevu as their traditional fishing ground, deepening the socio-political dispute.
Centre’s Stand and Legal Developments
The Union Government maintains that Katchatheevu was never under full Indian sovereignty, and hence its transfer was not a “cession.” They argue that the island falls on Sri Lanka’s side of the maritime boundary, as per the treaties. However, the issue is currently pending in the Supreme Court, where legal arguments about constitutional rights and state consultation are being raised.
Static GK Snapshot
Tamil Nadu Assembly Passes Resolution to Reclaim Katchatheevu Island :
| Feature | Details |
| Island Name | Katchatheevu |
| Located In | Palk Strait (between India and Sri Lanka) |
| Area | 285 acres |
| Ceded Under | India-Sri Lanka Maritime Boundary Agreement, 1974 |
| 1974 Agreement Provision | No visa for pilgrims, no fishing rights for Indians |
| 1976 Treaty Focus | Finalized maritime boundary, no fishing for Indians |
| Tamil Nadu’s Current Stand | Reclaim island for protecting fishermen’s rights |
| Centre’s Argument | Island was never fully India’s territory |
| Current Legal Status | Pending in Supreme Court of India |
| Traditional Use by Indians | Fishing and pilgrimage (St. Anthony’s shrine) |
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