The Katchatheevu controversy: A historical flashpoint | Fusion - WeRIndia

The island of Katchatheevu, nestled in the Palk Strait between India and Sri Lanka, has resurfaced in political debates.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently criticized the Congress party for relinquishing the island to Sri Lanka in 1974.

This action, Modi suggests, was made “callously,” igniting old disputes over territorial rights and the livelihood of fishermen.

In 1974, the Indira Gandhi-led government handed Katchatheevu to Sri Lanka, a decision underpinned by historical and legal precedents, according to official statements.

Despite being uninhabited, the island’s strategic location and significance for fishermen from both countries make it a point of contention.

Historically, the island switched allegiances between local kingdoms and colonial powers, eventually landing under British administration.

Post-independence, both India and Sri Lanka claimed Katchatheevu, leading to protracted negotiations.

The 1974 agreement, however, cemented Sri Lanka’s sovereignty over the island, marking the end of India’s formal claim.

The controversy over Katchatheevu is not merely historical but deeply impacts the present-day lives of fishermen.

Indian fishermen, particularly from Tamil Nadu, have historically depended on the rich fishing grounds around Katchatheevu.

However, the agreement restricted their access, leading to frequent detentions by Sri Lankan authorities and endangering their livelihoods.

The Tamil Nadu government, irrespective of the party in power, has consistently challenged the handover.

From organizing protests to taking legal action, efforts have been made to reclaim fishing rights.

The issue of Katchatheevu is more than territorial; it’s about preserving the economic and social well-being of the fishing communities.

Recently, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin appealed to PM Modi, urging him to negotiate the rights of Tamil fishermen with the Sri Lankan Prime Minister.

These appeals highlight the ongoing struggle for access to traditional fishing waters, crucial for the survival of many families in Tamil Nadu.

Katchatheevu’s legacy is a complex interplay of history, politics, and livelihood.

While the island itself remains uninhabited, the surrounding waters are a battleground for rights, identities, and survival, reflecting the unresolved tensions between India and Sri Lanka.

Image from Pxhere (Free for commercial use / CC0 Public Domain)

Image Reference: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/598688