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Tamil Nadu CM seeks Modi intervention for release of fishing boats held by Sri Lanka

The chief minister of Tamil Nadu O Paneerselvam, in his latest letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the Sri Lankan navy's treatment of Tamil Nadu fishermen, called for his intervention to secure the release of 75 fishing boats, currently held by Sri Lankan authorities.

In his second letter to Modi, the chief minister said the vengeful action of the Sri Lankan navy and authorities in that country had affected the livelihood of Indian fishermen, according to The Times of India.

"The Sri Lankan side has deliberately and deviously hardened its stance and adopted this harsh approach of not releasing the boats," he said.

"Even now, it is reported that disuse and lack of maintenance have led to their deterioration. The high velocity winds accompanying the monsoon will damage these precariously anchored boats beyond redemption," he said, urging Modi to the government to address the issue and ensure the release of the boats.

See related articles below.

Indian fisherman files complaint against Swamy over boats (14 October 2014)

Tamil Nadu concerned at 'new trend' of fishermen detention by SL navy (08 October 2014)

New Tamil Nadu CM writes to Modi urging fishermen's release (01 October 2014)

Four Indian fishermen arrested by Sri Lanka (23 September 2014)

PMK condemns reports that Sri Lanka is auctioning off detained boats (20 September 2014)

Thousands of Indian fishermen launch hunger strike protest against Sri Lankan Navy (18 September 2014)

SL navy arrests 53 Indian fishermen (11 September 2014)

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