Tamil Nadu Victory Party (TVK) leader Vijay has issued a strong statement urging the central government to lease Katchatheevu from Sri Lanka for 99 years as an interim solution, until full recovery of the island is achieved. He emphasized that this move is essential for the protection and livelihood of Tamil Nadu fishermen.
In his statement, Vijay said:
“The permanent solution to safeguarding the lives and livelihood of our fishermen lies in recovering Katchatheevu. Until that happens, the island should be leased to India for 99 years. The Sri Lankan government must adhere to international laws like the UN Declaration on the Law of the Sea. The responsibility to protect fishermen lies firmly with both central and state governments.”
Vijay criticized the ruling DMK for its role in the original handover of Katchatheevu in 1974, claiming it prioritized political power over Tamil interests. He questioned the timing of the DMK’s recent resolution on the issue, calling it a political stunt ahead of the 2026 state elections.
“The DMK has a long history of empty gestures—writing letters to the center while conveniently forgetting its own role in the past. When in power at the center, they remained silent. Now, with elections approaching, they pass symbolic resolutions to mislead the public.”
Vijay further condemned the central BJP government for what he described as indifference and bias toward Tamil Nadu fishermen, while being more attentive to fishermen from other states like Gujarat.
He pointed out that over 800 Tamil fishermen have lost their lives due to alleged attacks by the Sri Lankan Navy, with countless others losing boats, gear, and livelihoods.
“The Tamil Nadu Victory Party has always stood by fishermen with genuine intent. We strongly urge the central government to take firm diplomatic steps. Leasing Katchatheevu for 99 years is a realistic interim solution that must be implemented without delay.”
Vijay also called on Prime Minister Modi, ahead of his planned visit to Sri Lanka, to assert India’s rightful claim over Katchatheevu and advocate for a lasting solution through international channels.
“A referendum remains the only path for peace and security for Sri Lankan Tamils. The Prime Minister must lead efforts to bring global attention to the issue and exert direct pressure on the Sri Lankan government.”
He concluded by stressing that Modi’s visit to Sri Lanka should become a beacon of hope—not only for the fishermen of Tamil Nadu, but also for the Sri Lankan Tamil community.
— TVK Vijay (@TVKVijayHQ) April 4, 2025
