January 28, 2025: A diplomatic row has erupted between India and Sri Lanka following a firing incident involving the Sri Lankan Navy that left five Indian fishermen injured near Delft Island early Tuesday morning. Among the injured, two are reported to be in critical condition and are currently receiving treatment at Jaffna Teaching Hospital, while three others sustained minor injuries and have also been hospitalized.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in New Delhi strongly condemned the incident, calling it "unacceptable" and summoned Sri Lanka’s acting High Commissioner to lodge a formal protest. The Indian government expressed serious concerns over the use of force against fishermen, emphasizing the need to address such matters with humanity and consideration for the livelihood challenges faced by fishing communities.

According to the MEA, the incident occurred during an attempt by the Sri Lankan Navy to apprehend a group of 13 Indian fishermen in waters near Delft Island. The MEA reiterated that the use of force in such situations is unjustifiable under any circumstances and urged Sri Lanka to adhere to bilateral agreements on the humane treatment of fishermen. Indian consular officials in Jaffna have visited the injured and are extending all possible support.

The Sri Lankan Navy, however, issued a statement claiming that the firing was accidental and occurred in response to an alleged attempt by the Indian fishermen to assault naval personnel and snatch a firearm. They reported that the confrontation endangered their personnel, leading to an unintended discharge of weapons, which caused injuries to two of the fishermen.

This incident follows a string of confrontations between the two countries over fishing rights in the contentious waters of the Palk Strait. Earlier this month, eight Indian fishermen were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy for allegedly fishing in Sri Lankan territorial waters during a special operation in the Mannar region.

India has consistently advocated for resolving these disputes through dialogue, urging Sri Lanka to address the issue with sensitivity and mutual understanding. The Indian High Commission in Colombo has raised the matter with Sri Lanka’s Foreign Ministry, reinforcing the need for adherence to existing agreements and emphasizing the unacceptability of actions that jeopardize the safety of fishermen.

The firing incident has reignited tensions over the long-standing fishing disputes between the two nations, with calls for an immediate and peaceful resolution to prevent further escalation.