“If Pakistan proposed such sea encroachment near Goa, would India tolerate it?” questions veteran Sri Lankan official Austin Fernando amidst the BJP’s efforts to revive the decades-old Katchatheevu issue ahead of the general elections. Former Sri Lankan envoy to India, Fernando, expressed his views during a conversation with The Indian Express from Colombo on Wednesday. He emphasized that while the BJP may have stirred this issue as a “vote-puller,” it could pose challenges for the Indian government post-elections.

Fernando, a highly respected figure with extensive experience, highlighted that any Indian action crossing the Sri Lankan maritime international boundary would be viewed as a violation of Sri Lankan sovereignty. He referenced Sri Lankan President Ranasinghe Premadasa’s stance in the late 1980s regarding the Indian Peacekeeping Force.

Drawing parallels, Fernando questioned India’s hypothetical response if Pakistan or Bangladesh attempted similar encroachments near its shores. He stressed that the issue of Katchatheevu, ceded to Sri Lanka by India in 1974, has resurfaced ahead of the Lok Sabha election in Tamil Nadu, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticizing the decision made by the Indira Gandhi government.

Fernando cautioned that once such statements are made, it becomes challenging for the government to retract them post-elections, especially if the BJP secures victory. He suggested that efforts to appease Tamil Nadu voters might include discussions on fishing rights in the Katchatheevu region, although he questioned the effectiveness of such measures and raised concerns about control.

Regarding economic aid from India during Sri Lanka’s economic crisis, Fernando acknowledged the assistance but urged diplomatic restraint considering the existing political and economic challenges. He warned that raising the Katchatheevu issue could fuel criticism of Indian investments and create a more challenging political environment in Sri Lanka.

Former diplomats from both India and Sri Lanka emphasized that the agreement on Katchatheevu in the 1970s was reached in good faith, with mutual concessions. They highlighted India’s access to Wadge Bank’s resources as a significant gain from the agreement.

In conclusion, Fernando’s remarks underscore the complex dynamics surrounding the Katchatheevu issue and its potential implications for regional politics and diplomacy.