Katchatheevu Island: A Persistent Flashpoint in India-Sri Lanka Relations and Maritime Rights
The uninhabited island of Katchatheevu remains a sensitive issue in India-Sri Lanka relations. Recently, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake visited the island, the first such visit by a head of state, reigniting political debates in India. India ceded the island to Sri Lanka through maritime boundary agreements in 1974 and 1976. However, Tamil Nadu politicians frequently demand its retrieval to protect the fishing rights of Indian fishermen, who are often arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy for crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL). The issue is complicated by the practice of bottom-trawling, which is banned in Sri Lanka.
Key Points
- Katchatheevu was recognized as part of Sri Lanka's territory under the 1974 and 1976 maritime boundary agreements.
- The island is home to St. Anthony's Shrine, where Indian pilgrims are allowed access without visas for an annual festival.
- The dispute centers on the traditional fishing rights of Indian fishermen in the Palk Strait.
- Sri Lanka opposes bottom-trawling by Indian vessels due to its destructive impact on the marine ecosystem.
Exam Facts
- The Indo-Sri Lankan Maritime Boundary Agreements were signed in 1974 and 1976.
- Katchatheevu is located about 33 nautical miles off the Jaffna peninsula.
- The island covers an area of approximately 1.15 sq. km.
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