Sri Lankan Envoy Summoned by India Over Navy’s Shooting of Indian Fishermen

India has summoned Sri Lanka’s Acting High Commissioner in New Delhi to lodge a strong protest following an incident where the Sri Lankan Navy fired upon 13 Indian fishermen near Delft Island, injuring five of them.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) condemned the use of force, stressing that such actions are “unacceptable under any circumstances.” The MEA called for addressing issues related to fishermen with humanity and concern for their livelihoods, urging strict adherence to existing agreements between the two countries.

According to the MEA, two of the injured fishermen are in serious condition and are receiving treatment at the Jaffna Teaching Hospital, while three others suffered minor injuries and have been treated. Indian consulate officials in Jaffna have visited the injured fishermen to offer support.

The incident occurred in the early hours of January 28, 2025, when the Sri Lankan Navy apprehended the Indian fishing vessel near Delft Island. The MEA did not provide further details on the circumstances of the firing.

The Indian High Commission in Colombo has also raised the matter with Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Government of India reiterated the importance of dealing with fishermen’s issues in a humane manner, considering their livelihood concerns.