Prime Minister Narendra Modi has seized upon a recent media report, which surfaced through an RTI reply received by Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai, concerning the contentious Katchatheevu issue. This development comes amidst the BJP’s intensified campaign efforts in Tamil Nadu ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. PM Modi, in a scathing rebuke aimed at the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the Congress party, highlighted what he termed as the revelation of the DMK’s “double standard” regarding the Katchatheevu matter.
The backdrop to this issue dates back to 1974 when the then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s government signed an agreement with Sri Lanka, relinquishing India’s claim to the island of Katchatheevu. This decision sparked considerable controversy, particularly within Tamil Nadu, where there was vehement opposition, primarily due to the island’s historical usage by Indian fishermen. Notably, DMK MP Era Sezhiyan vehemently opposed the agreement in Parliament, criticizing it as a territorial surrender without adequate consultation.
A recent report by The Times of India suggests that former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi had expressed a general acceptance of the agreement in a meeting with Indian officials prior to its official announcement by the Centre. This revelation, based on an RTI reply, indicates that Karunanidhi was briefed about the agreement and had shown inclinations towards accepting it.
PM Modi, while underscoring his criticism of the DMK and Congress, lamented their alleged failure to safeguard Tamil Nadu’s interests. He accused both parties of prioritizing their familial interests over the welfare of the state’s residents, particularly highlighting their negligence regarding the Katchatheevu issue and its adverse effects on local fishermen and fisherwomen.
Katchatheevu, notable for housing the St. Anthony’s shrine, remains a contentious point of discussion. Despite provisions in the 1974 agreement allowing Indian fishermen to attend the annual St. Anthony’s festival and utilize the island for rest and net drying, they continue to face arrests by Sri Lankan authorities.
PM Modi’s recent remarks on this issue follow his consistent stance, previously highlighted during the monsoon session of Parliament, where he disclosed receiving requests from the Tamil Nadu government urging to “take back Katchatheevu”. The BJP sees this issue as a potential leverage point in garnering political support in Tamil Nadu, especially given the charged political atmosphere surrounding Sri Lanka’s treatment of its Tamilian citizens and Tamil Nadu fishermen.