Politics · Sri Lanka Bureau
India reaffirms position on Katchatheevu island, rules out reopening pact
India has declared it will not revisit agreements concerning Katchatheevu, drawing praise from the Indian Fisheries Minister. The stance effectively closes the door on efforts by Tamil Nadu political parties to reclaim the contested island.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
India's fisheries leadership has welcomed New Delhi's firm position on Katchatheevu, signalling no willingness to reopen settled matters regarding the island. Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekaran expressed approval of the Indian government's declaration during recent parliamentary proceedings on the Anti-Corruption Amendment Bill.
Chandrasekaran characterised New Delhi's rejection of attempts by the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam and All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam to regain sovereignty over Katchatheevu as a historic decision. The minister's comments underscored the finality of India's position on the bilateral agreement governing the island's status.
The declaration addresses longstanding interest in Tamil Nadu to reclaim the rocky islet, which has been a periodic point of contention between India and Sri Lanka. By reaffirming its commitment to existing agreements, New Delhi has reinforced the stability of maritime arrangements in the region.
The Indian government's stance provides clarity to both domestic constituencies and the international community regarding the permanence of the settlement between New Delhi and Colombo on this issue.