15 Indian fishermen imprisoned in Sri Lanka return home

New Delhi : The Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed the successful return of 15 Indian fishermen from Sri Lanka. These fishermen, detained by Sri Lankan authorities for allegedly crossing the international maritime border, have now safely returned to India via Chennai.

The Government of India has been pursuing their release through sustained diplomatic efforts. Over the past few years, these efforts have enabled the return of a large number of Indian nationals from Sri Lanka. According to official data, 538 fishermen were repatriated in 2024, 240 in 2023, and 268 in 2022. By March 2025, 76 fishermen from Tamil Nadu, 9 from Puducherry, and 2 from Kerala had reunited with their families, and several more groups of Indian fishermen have returned home as of October 2025.

Officials from the Indian High Commission and Consulate General in Sri Lanka are actively engaged in assisting detained fishermen. They regularly visit prisons and detention centers to monitor their well-being, ensure legal assistance, and expedite their release and repatriation. These on-the-ground efforts complement India's extensive diplomatic outreach to the Sri Lankan authorities. 

Government of India attaches the highest priority to the safety, security, and welfare of Indian fishermen. Recognizing their vital contribution to coastal livelihoods, India continues to raise issues related to their arrest and detention through established bilateral mechanisms, diplomatic channels, and active consular contact. Through continued dialogue and humanitarian efforts, the Government remains steadfast in its commitment to ensure that every Indian fisherman in distress abroad receives timely assistance and returns home safely.

(Report by Shashwat Tiwari)