Katchatheevu is a little, uninhabited island located in the Palk Strait, right between India and Sri Lanka. It has been a hot topic of disagreement between the two countries for many years, mainly due to its historical significance, strategic spot, and fishing rights.
Key Facts about Katchatheevu Island:
• Location: Palk Strait, situated about 33 km from Rameswaram (India) and 17 km from Jaffna (Sri Lanka).
• Area: 285 acres
• Geographical Feature: A volcanic island that’s mostly barren, featuring a small St. Antony’s Church, which serves as a pilgrimage site for fishermen from both India and Sri Lanka.
• Importance: It boasts rich fishing grounds, especially favored by fishermen from Tamil Nadu.
Historical Background & Dispute
1. Pre-1974: Indian Control & Fishermen’s Use
• The island was traditionally utilized by Indian fishermen, especially those from Tamil Nadu.
• It was under the authority of the Raja of Ramnad, a princely state during the British era.
• After India gained independence in 1947, both India and Sri Lanka laid claim to the island.
2. 1974 & 1976 Agreements: India Cedes Katchatheevu to Sri Lanka
In 1974, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Sri Lankan Prime Minister Sirimavo Bandaranaike came together to sign an agreement that acknowledged Sri Lanka’s sovereignty over Katchatheevu.
Then, in 1976, another agreement was made that placed further restrictions on Indian fishermen, limiting their ability to fish in Sri Lankan waters.
Legal & Political Controversy
The Tamil Nadu government and local fishermen are claiming that the island was handed over without the necessary constitutional approval. Back in 1991, the Supreme Court of India stated that any changes to territorial boundaries need to go through Parliament, yet the transfer of Katchatheevu was executed via an executive agreement. In 2008, the AIADMK party, led by Jayalalithaa, brought a case to the Supreme Court to demand the return of Katchatheevu. Now, in 2024, the topic has resurfaced in political debates, with Indian parties pushing for a re-evaluation of the agreement.
Impact on Indian Fishermen
- Frequent arrests: Sri Lankan Navy often detains Indian fishermen for crossing into Sri Lankan waters.
- Economic Loss: Indian fishermen, especially from Tamil Nadu, suffer as they are barred from rich fishing grounds.
- Diplomatic Tensions: The issue has led to repeated diplomatic negotiations between India and Sri Lanka.
Current Status (2024-2025)
- Sri Lanka maintains full sovereignty over the island.
- The Indian government has periodically raised concerns about fishermen’s rights.
- Calls for retrieving Katchatheevu have grown in Tamil Nadu politics, especially ahead of elections.
