Nishar Mohammed & Vikramaditya
Sri Vijaya Puram, June 25: The Andaman & Nicobar Fishermen’s Cooperative Federation has intensified its demand for strict action over the alleged assault on ten fishermen, asserting that the affected fishermen have now formally recorded their statements before the Fisheries Department and submitted a mass representation to the highest authorities of the Union Territory seeking justice.
Addressing media persons today, the Chairman of the Andaman & Nicobar Fishermen’s Cooperative Federation, Mr. Maheswar Rao, said that following directions issued by the Secretary (Fisheries), the ten fishermen belonging to two fishing boats appeared before the Assistant Director of Fisheries at the South Andaman Zonal Office, where their statements were officially recorded. He stated that the fishermen had provided a detailed three-page account of the entire incident, beginning from their fishing operations and subsequent movement through Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep), Mayabunder and other locations before the alleged incident occurred.
Mr. Rao said that the statements were supported by photographic evidence, witness signatures and other relevant documents. In addition to recording their statements, the ten fishermen jointly submitted a mass petition addressed to the Lieutenant Governor, the Member of Parliament, the Chief Secretary, the Secretary (Fisheries), the Director of Fisheries, the Superintendents of Police of both districts and the Sub-Divisional authorities at Diglipur, seeking immediate intervention and action.
The Federation Chairman maintained that a thorough inquiry should be conducted into the incident and all officers found responsible should be held accountable. Referring to the vessel allegedly involved, identified as Rajdoot-87, Mr. Rao said the Federation was still awaiting official confirmation regarding the identity of the vessel and its commanding officers. He demanded that a joint meeting involving the administration, the officers concerned and representatives of the fishermen be convened so that the circumstances surrounding the incident could be examined transparently. If any officials were found guilty of misconduct, appropriate disciplinary action, including suspension, should be initiated, he added.
General Secretary of the Federation, Mr. B. Hema Raju, strongly condemned the alleged assault, claiming that the incident had deeply disturbed the fishing community. He said the injuries sustained by the fishermen had left their families traumatised and fearful. According to him, the fishing community has traditionally shared cordial relations with the Coast Guard and other maritime agencies, often assisting them by reporting suspicious vessels and activities in the country’s maritime borders. He noted that fishermen have, on several occasions, been recognised for their contribution to coastal security.
Mr. Hema Raju alleged that the incident was unprecedented and demanded suspension, termination and registration of an FIR against those responsible if wrongdoing is established. He appealed to the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor to personally monitor the matter and ensure that justice is delivered without delay. He further warned that unless prompt action is taken, fear among fishermen would continue, with many now reluctant to venture into the sea due to safety concerns.
One of the affected fishermen, Mr. Adi Narayan, also spoke during the media interaction, alleging that the treatment meted out to the fishermen was unjustified and deeply distressing. He said fishermen have always considered the Coast Guard as protectors at sea and have felt secure while fishing in their presence. However, he claimed that the recent incident had shaken that confidence. Demanding justice, he urged the authorities to facilitate a face-to-face interaction with the officials involved and ensure a fair and impartial investigation into the matter.
The Federation reiterated that it would continue pursuing the issue through democratic means until appropriate action is taken and justice is delivered to the affected fishermen.
