Fishermen in Rameswaram today ended their week-long protest over the killing of a colleague, allegedly by the Sri Lankan Navy, while those from Tamil Nadu’s five coastal districts began an indefinite fast over the issue and to press for other demands, Out Look India reported.

Over 5,000 fishermen from Nagapattinam, Karaikal, Tiruvaurur, Thanjavur and Pudukottai began the indefinite fast in front of the head post office in Rameswaram. The stir is being led by fishermen panchayat leaders of the five districts.

Mohandoss, leader of Nagapattinam Fishermen’s Panchayat told reporters that the stir was to press for their demands, including suitable compensation from both Central and state governments to the family of deceased fishermen Bridgo. He also sought immediate release of all Tamil fishermen from Lankan prisons and retrieval of over 140 fishing boats held by Sri Lanka.

Meanwhile, Fishermen Association leaders P Sesuraja and S Emerite told reporters at Rameswaram that they support the stir of their counterparts in Nagapattinam.

They said ending the stir at Rameswaram was temporary and they would leave for Delhi on March 20 to meet Union ministers for discussions on the issue of the attacks.

The future course of action would be decided after returning the next day, the leaders said.

Source: Out Look India
-Agencies