A section of local fishermen in Kodiyakkarai continued their indefinite fast for the third day on Wednesday, demanding the release of fishing boats seized earlier this week and protesting the presence of fishermen from other districts in local waters.
Every year during the northeast monsoon, fishermen from neighbouring districts anchor their boats at Kodiyakkarai and engage in fishing activities. Local fishermen allege that the large-scale arrival of these “outside” fishermen affects their livelihood and have urged the authorities not to permit them to operate in the area.
Despite peace talks held recently between officials and representatives of both groups, tensions flared again on Monday when fishermen from Arcot Thurai and nearby villages reportedly detained eight boats belonging to visiting fishermen, alleging violation of the agreed guidelines. The detained fishermen were later released, but the seized boats remain docked at the Arcot Thurai jetty, triggering fresh protests.
The indefinite fast, which began on Monday under the leadership of social activist Anandharaman, entered its third day on Wednesday on the Mariamman temple premises in Kodiyakkarai. Protesters reiterated their demand for the immediate release of the boats and urged the government to enforce the peace accord strictly.
Former Minister and Vedaranayam MLA O.S. Manian, former MLAs S.K. Vedarathinam and N.V. Kamarasu, and Vedaranayam municipal chairman M.M. Pugazhendhi visited the protest venue and interacted with the fasting fishermen.
Published – October 08, 2025 07:26 pm IST
