TN Congress MP’s Direct Appeal To Sri Lankan President Dissanayake On Fishermen Release Raises Eyebrows On Protocol

In an unusual move, newly elected Congress MP R Sudha from Mayiladuthurai constituency has directly petitioned Sri Lanka’s President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to release Indian fishermen, bypassing established diplomatic channels. This unorthodox approach has drawn sharp criticism from political observers and raised questions about protocol in international relations.

MP Sudha’s “open-hearted and open-minded” letter urges President Dissanayake to release Indian fishermen detained in Sri Lankan jails and return their boats as a goodwill gesture. She specifically requested the release of 37 fishermen from her constituency, noting that a total of 80 Indian fishermen and 173 fishing boats are currently in Sri Lankan custody.

The letter criticizes Sri Lanka’s treatment of Indian fishermen, stating, “No country arrests, fines, damages and attacks fishermen from neighbouring countries so regularly as Sri Lanka does.” Sudha argues that fishermen shouldn’t be treated as criminals for operating in shared waters like the Bay of Bengal.

However, this direct communication from a state-level MP to a foreign head of state has been met with significant backlash. Critics label it as “immature” and a breach of diplomatic protocol. They argue that such matters should be addressed through proper channels, involving the Chief Minister, Central-State Minister, or the Indian Prime Minister and External Affairs Minister, who would then engage with the Sri Lankan government.

The controversy highlights the complex nature of the fishing disputes between India and Sri Lanka, as well as the need for adherence to established diplomatic procedures. It also raises questions about the preparedness of newly elected officials in handling sensitive international issues.

This incident has sparked a broader debate about the selection and training of parliamentarians in Tamil Nadu, with some questioning the effectiveness of representatives who may lack experience in navigating complex diplomatic scenarios.

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