Arrest of TN fishermen: India takes up issue with SL

India has taken up with authorities in Colombo the issue of arrest of 23 Tamil Nadu fishermen by Sri Lankan Navy when they were fishing near Katchatheevu in the Palk Straits on Sunday, Ministry of External Affairs said in New Delhi on Monday.

Consul from Consulate General of India in Jaffna is going to Mania since the fishermen would be produced before the Mannar Judicial Magistrate court, MEA sources said.

"We are actively working on this. Our High Commission has also taken up their release with Sri Lankan authorities in Colombo," the ministry sources said.

Sri Lankan naval personnel allegedly attacked some fishing boats and arrested 23 Tamil Nadu fishermen when they were fishing near Katchatheevu in the Palk Straits, fisheries department officials had said on Sunday.

The Lankan navy also seized five boats, officials said.

Rameswaram Fishermen's Association President Emirett said the Lankan naval men attacked 20 other fishing boats and seized the fishing nets.