Katchatheevu Island Controversy Resurfaces Ahead of Tamil Nadu Elections

The BJP accuses past Congress governments of compromising Tamil Nadu's interests by ceding the island to Sri Lanka in 1974, reigniting political debates.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has reignited the controversy over Katchatheevu island, blaming past Congress governments for ceding it to Sri Lanka in 1974.
The issue has become a focal point in Tamil Nadu politics ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, with the BJP accusing Congress and DMK of neglecting Tamil Nadu's interests.
Over 6,000 Indian fishermen have been detained by Sri Lanka in the last 20 years, highlighting the ongoing tensions over fishing rights in the region.
Legal challenges against the 1974 agreement have emerged, but efforts to reclaim the island have not been successful, with the BJP now facing criticism for not acting during its tenure.
The controversy underscores the complex history and political significance of Katchatheevu, affecting India-Sri Lanka relations and the livelihoods of Tamil Nadu fishermen.