Paper: GS – II, Subject: International Relations, Topic: India and its neighbourhood, Issue: Resolving Katchatheevu and Palk strait issues.
Context:
India has promoted peace & regional cooperation through Panchsheel, NAM, SAARC, and the Neighbourhood First Policy. However, fisheries disputes in Palk Strait and sovereignty issues over Katchatheevu Island remain unresolved, straining India–Sri Lanka relations.
Key Highlights:
Core Issues:
Livelihood vs Conservation:
- Tamil Nadu & Northern Sri Lanka fishers historically share Palk Strait waters. Conflict arises from Indian mechanised bottom trawlers encroaching into Sri Lankan waters.
- UNCLOS (1982) stresses equitable use & conservation of marine resources. FAO (1995) also stated that bottom trawling & destructive practices are unacceptable.
- Though Sri Lanka banned bottom trawling (2017), Indian trawlers continue.
Katchatheevu issue:
- It is a tiny uninhabited island (0.5 sq. mile) in Palk Strait, legally ceded to Sri Lanka under 1974 & 1976 bilateral agreements.
- Treaty recognised Sri Lankan sovereignty but allowed traditional fishing rights & pilgrimage rights.
- Misconceptions: Misconceptions prevail that “India gifted away Katchatheevu”. Archival records show colonial-era cession of the island from Portuguese → Dutch → British → Sri Lanka.
- Any unilateral reversal undermines treaty obligations & international law.
Challenges:
- Economic hardship: Northern Sri Lankan Tamil fishers lost income during civil war; Indian trawlers now worsen pressure.
- Ecological degradation: Coral beds, shrimp habitats, deep-sea fish stocks affected by trawling.
- Legal limitations: No “innocent passage” rights for Indian trawlers under UNCLOS Art. 19 & 123.
- Political sensitivities: Tamil Nadu’s livelihood demands vs. Sri Lanka’s conservation & sovereignty claims.
Way Forward:
Conclusion:
A balanced solution requires humane treatment of fishers, sustainable fishing practices, and respect for international law. India must align its Neighbourhood First Policy with grassroots livelihood concerns to build long-term trust with Sri Lanka.
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