In a recent interview, TR Paarivendhar, founder of the Indhiya Jananayaga Katchi (IJK), voiced his concerns about the Katchatheevu agreement between India and Sri Lanka. Paarivendhar labeled the agreement as "unfortunate" and raised questions about the involvement of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Karunanidhi in the deal.
According to Paarivendhar, Karunanidhi was well aware of the situation at the time and allowed the agreement to proceed under the tenure of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
Paarivendhar emphasized the impact of the agreement on fishermen in the region, highlighting their ongoing struggles and the frequent arrests and harassment they face. He lamented the suffering of Indian fishermen due to the agreement, stating that it should never have happened.
The Katchatheevu island, situated between Rameswaram in India and Sri Lanka, has been a contentious issue for decades. Under the Indo-Sri Lankan Maritime Agreement of 1974, the island was accepted as Sri Lankan territory by the Indian government. Paarivendhar's comments underscore the longstanding grievances surrounding the agreement and its implications for Indian fishermen.
Praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi's governance style, Paarivendhar commended India's growing global recognition under Modi's leadership. He highlighted Modi's efforts to promote development and financial growth in India, as well as his appreciation for the Tamil language and culture.
Paarivendhar also criticized the DMK, accusing them of obstructing parliamentary proceedings and wasting public resources. His remarks come amidst escalating tensions between the BJP and the DMK over the Katchatheevu issue ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
In response to the BJP's focus on the Katchatheevu issue, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin questioned Prime Minister Modi's silence on the matter during his visits to Sri Lanka. Stalin accused the BJP of exploiting the issue for political gain, suggesting that it was a diversionary tactic.
TR Paarivendhar, currently serving as an MP representing Perambalur in the Lok Sabha, is set to contest in the upcoming elections from the same seat. With the elections scheduled to be held in seven phases starting April 19, the Katchatheevu issue continues to be a point of contention in Tamil Nadu politics.
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