Tamil Nadu adopts resolution on retrieval of Katchatheevu

The Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly recently passed a unanimous resolution urging the Union government to retrieve the Katchatheevu island from Sri Lanka.

Article 2: 

Governs the admission or establishment of new states.

Article 3:

 Outlines the formation of new states and alterations of areas, boundaries, or names of existing states.

1. Background: 

 Katchatheevu is a small, uninhabited island in the Palk Bay, ceded to Sri Lanka under the 1974 Indo-Sri Lankan Maritime Agreement. The island has been a point of contention due to its impact on Tamil Nadu fishermen's traditional fishing rights.

Impact on Fishermen: 

 Tamil Nadu fishermen have faced challenges, including arrests and fines, for allegedly crossing maritime boundaries. In 2024 alone, 530 fishermen were arrested.

1. Geography: 

 The island spans approximately 285 acres and lies between Neduntheevu (Sri Lanka) and Rameswaram (India). Historically, it has been used by both Indian Tamil and Sri Lankan Tamil fishermen.

2. Historical Background:

 Katchatheevu was part of the Ramnad Kingdom of Ramanathapuram and later came under the Madras Presidency during British rule.

In 1974, India ceded the island to Sri Lanka under the Indo-Sri Lankan Maritime Agreement to resolve maritime boundaries in the Palk Strait.

3. Fishing Rights: 

 The 1976 agreement restricted fishermen from both countries from fishing in each other's exclusive economic zones. Tamil Nadu fishermen have faced challenges, including arrests and fines, for allegedly crossing maritime boundaries near Katchatheevu.

4. Cultural Significance: 

 The island houses St. Anthony's Church, which is visited annually by Indian fishermen for religious ceremonies.