Thousands are affected by the restrictions, say fishermen

Thousands of fishermen in Thalaimannar, Pudukuduiruppu, Pesalai and Erukkulampitti are affected by the restrictions, they say.

"We are now given passes by Sri Lanka navy personnel at 5am and asked to come back before 6pm," a fisherman who wished to remain anonymous told the BBC.

He said that the government has re-imposed the measure, which was relaxed during the presidential elections.

'Illegal smuggling'

This 'punishment' is meted out due to the majority of the fishing community in the north voting for the main opposition candidate, Gen Sarath Fonseka, alleged the fishermen.

"If we do not come back before 6pm, we are not allowed to go fishing the next day".

As a result of the restrictions, fishermen are facing a lot of difficulties including not being able to keep fresh fish, he added.

However, Sri Lanka navy told BBC Sandeshaya that no new restrictions were imposed in Mannar island.

SLN spokesman, Capt Athula Senerath said that as Mannar is close to Indian maritime border there is a need to control illegal activities such as smuggling of goods.