Protests in Rameshwaram (Tamil Nadu) after an Indian fisherman was shot dead by the Sri Lankan Navy.


Thousands have gathered at the home of the slain fisherman, Bridgo, in Rameswaram, and his family has refused to accept his body without assurance that action will be taken.


Protesting fishermen have demanded assurance from External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and also the Lankan government that action will be taken against the Sri Lankan navy.


A 22-year-old Indian fisherman was shot dead today allegedly by the Sri Lankan navy while he was fishing in a mechanised boat at a short distance off Katchatheevu islet, fisheries department officials said. The incident occurred last evening when Bridgo, from Thangachimadam in central Rameswaram of Tamil Nadu, was fishing near the islet along with others and the Sri Lankan naval personnel arrived at the spot and opened fire, Fisheries Department Assistant Director Kulanchinathan said.


Bridgo was shot in the neck and died on the spot, he said, adding another fisherman, Saravanan (22), suffered injuries in his leg in the firing while others who went along with them escaped unhurt and returned to the shore at 12.30 am.


Rameswaram Fishermen Association President P Sesuraja told PTI that more than 2,000 fishermen were fishing well within Indian waters when the Sri Lankan naval personnel came to the spot taking them by surprise.
The Lankan navy officials did not even fire a warning shot, he alleged.


Kulanchinathan said the body has been brought to the Rameswaram hospital and a case has been registered at the Jetty police station.


Meanwhile, tension prevailed in the area as fishermen from Thangachimadam coastal hamlet gathered in front of the hospital to protest the firing by the Sri Lankan navy.


The Tamil Nadu government had yesterday protested the "escalation" in apprehension of its fishermen by Sri Lanka and said the Centre did "not seem to put adequate pressure" on Colombo regarding the matter.