T. N. Gopalan Chennai

	Indian fishermen

The petition filed by LTA Peter Rayan, president of Fishermen Care, said since Katcha Theevu was ceded to Sri Lanka and also the rights to exploit all marine resources as per an agreement in 1976, Tamil Nadu fishermen have been facing a tough time at the hands of the Lankan navy.

Increased harresments

The petitioner say, "Of late, the Lankan navy has become more aggressive and is posing a serious threat to the life and property of Indian fishermen venturing into the sea. Several hundred fishermen have been killed and hundreds of boats and fishing nets damaged".

In the circumstances Mr Rayan wanted the court to direct the state and central government authorities to restore the livelihood and customary rights of Indian fishermen in terms of the first agreement of 1974, rehabilitation of families of victims, and steps to prosecute the Sri Lankan Naval authorities before the International Court of Justice.

Negligence of Coast Guard

	India and Sri Lanka held talks about fishermen issue

Rayan also wanted the court to form a committee headed by a retired judge of the high court to inquire the negligence and failure of the Indian Coast Guard to prevent human rights violations against Indian fishermen.

Sri Lankan Navy denies causing harm to Indian fisherman and the government had promised Indian authorities that the accusations are investigated.