Fishermen’s organisations in Jaffna have joined political activists to distribute leaflets demanding an end to Indian trawler incursions and the withdrawal of a proposed Fisheries Bill.
The joint campaign was conducted in northern Sri Lanka alongside members of the Jana Aragala movement, including Frontline Socialist Party activist Vasantha Mudalige.
Protesters warned that taxes on nets and gear have driven prices beyond reach, making boat purchases impossible for ordinary workers.
Demonstrators pointed out that despite an official fuel subsidy announcement, local fishermen are still forced to pay full market prices at the pump.
Campaigners alleged that the government has failed to deliver on its pledges, leaving fishing communities waiting in vain for relief.
The leaflets accused successive administrations of neglecting to develop the sector scientifically while failing to halt Indian vessels from plundering local waters.
The long-running maritime dispute remains unresolved after bilateral talks on bottom trawling were postponed without a new date set.
Tamil fishing communities continue to suffer as bottom trawlers damage gear, deplete fish stocks, and destroy seabed habitats in the North and East.
Local fishermen also face severe operational limits due to ongoing military occupation of coastal land and strict naval access controls.
Organisers outlined key demands including lower fuel prices, affordable equipment, concessionary fuel supplies, decisive action against foreign incursions, and the immediate withdrawal of the legislation.
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