Forty-one fishermen from Tamil Nadu, arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy in September last year for allegedly crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL), arrived at Chennai Airport late Tuesday night, officials said on Wednesday.

According to Tamil Nadu coastal police officials, of the 41 fishermen, 35 are from Ramanathapuram, while the remaining six hail from Nagapattinam and Pudukottai districts. Upon arrival, they underwent citizenship verification, customs checks, and other formalities.

This release follows the return of another group of 15 Tamil Nadu fishermen who reached Chennai on January 16, after being arrested earlier by the Sri Lankan Navy.

The issue of recurring arrests of Indian fishermen by Sri Lankan authorities was raised by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar during discussions with Sri Lankan President Anura Dissanayake during the latter’s recent visit to India.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has also urged the Union government to address the continuing arrests and ensure the safety of fishermen from the state.

Fishermen associations across Tamil Nadu have staged widespread protests in coastal districts, demanding decisive action. They have submitted petitions to the President of India, requesting intervention to stop the mid-sea arrests and the seizure of mechanized fishing boats, which are vital to their livelihoods.

(With IANS inputs)