The notice says, "Innocent fishermen are often shot at or tortured by the Sri Lankan Navy and the Indian government is doing nothing to protect them." It points out a marked escalation in attacks on the fishermen while fishing within Indian waters, and seeks the NHRC's help to protect their human rights and livelihood.
Gadkari also urged the NHRC to issue a direction to the Centre and the state government to provide adequate security to those venturing into high seas, and ensure that their life, liberty, livelihood, travel and trade are protected. He also wants the Indian Coast Guard to protect the fishermen.
The petition also sought directions to the Tamil Nadu government to provide fishermen with alternative sources of livelihood in case they are not able to provide proper safety and security to them to earn their livelihood.
It also accused the state government of filing no chargesheet and no prosecution in several such cases, and sought suitable compensation for the families of the victims. It also sought a re-activation of the non-functional Indo-Sri Lanka Joint Working Group on fishing.
© 2025