Families of seven fishermen from Kanniyakumari district, who have been detained in Lakshadweep, have appealed to the State government to take steps for release of their breadwinners.
In a petition submitted by the fishermen’s families during the weekly grievance redressal meet held at the Collectorate on Monday, they said seven fishermen from various parts of Kanniyakumari district and a fisherman from Kerala went for fishing in the mechanised boat of William of Thuthur from Kochi fishing harbour.
Since one Surathullah of Lakshadweep, who reportedly told Mr. William that he had permission for fishing off Lakshadweep coast, the owner sent the boat to the area having excellent catch.
As per procedure, on getting permission for fishing in Lakshadweep waters, the colour of the paint of the boat should be changed from green to white. As Surathullah did not obtain permission from the authorities concerned for fishing in Lakshadweep, the Indian Navy detained all eight fishermen with the boat on May 25 for illegal fishing.
“The fishermen, believing the words of Surathullah, went to Lakshadweep for fishingfor which he had not obtained any permission from appropriate authorities. Instead of arresting Surathullah, the fishermen with the boat have been detained and lodged in prison in Lakshadweep,” said Rev. Fr. Churchil, general secretary of South Asian Association Fishermen Fraternity, who accompanied the aggrieved fishermen families.
“Our fishermen are innocent and should be released immediately while taking appropriate action against Surathullah,” Fr. Churchil added.
