In a recent development, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has reignited the long-standing debate over the islet of Katchatheevu by reiterating the demand for its retrieval from Sri Lanka. Katchatheevu, a barren and uninhabited 285-acre islet, lies approximately 14 nautical miles off the coast of Rameswaram. The renewed interest in this disputed region has once again brought to the forefront historical agreements, sovereignty claims, and the significance of Katchatheevu for fisherfolk and religious practices.
Historical Background and Ownership Dispute
The ownership of Katchatheevu became a contentious issue with the signing of an agreement between India and Sri Lanka in June 1974. This agreement, involving the then Prime Ministers of India and Sri Lanka, Indira Gandhi and Sirima R.D. Bandaranaike, delineated the maritime boundary between the two nations, extending from the Palk Strait to Adam’s Bridge. According to the joint statement, the boundary was established based on historical evidence, international legal principles, and precedents, designating the islet of Katchatheevu as part of Sri Lanka’s territory. This agreement marked the conclusion of discussions that had spanned back to 1921.
Impact on Fisherfolk and Cultural Practices
The significance of Katchatheevu for fisherfolk from both India and Sri Lanka is profound. Traditionally, fishermen from both countries have utilized the waters around the islet for fishing. Acknowledging this reality, the 1974 agreement recognized their traditional fishing rights. However, a supplemental pact in March 1976 imposed restrictions on fishing activities in the historic waters, territorial sea, exclusive zone, and exclusive economic zone without explicit permission from either nation. Notably, the Anthony’s Church on the islet remains an important religious site, drawing devotees from both sides for an annual festival.
Roots of Negotiation: Sovereignty Claims and Historical Context
Sri Lanka’s claim over Katchatheevu traces back to its assertion that the Portuguese, who occupied the islet from 1505 to 1658 CE, exercised jurisdiction over it. Contrarily, India contends that the former Raja of Ramnad (Ramanathapuram) held possession of the islet as part of his zamin (landholding). These competing narratives laid the foundation for negotiations between India and Sri Lanka.
Renewed Demands and Government Stances
The recent call for the retrieval of Katchatheevu has its origins in the opposition triggered by the 1974 agreement. At that time, former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, then leader of the Jan Sangh, criticized the decision to transfer the islet, claiming it was done without the knowledge of the public and Parliament. The issue remained subdued for over a decade until August 1991 when then Chief Minister Jayalalithaa demanded the islet’s retrieval. She later modified her stance, advocating for the return of the islet through a perpetual lease.
Union Government’s Position and Current Status
The Union government’s stance on the matter asserts that there was no cession of Indian territory to Sri Lanka, rendering the question of Katchatheevu’s retrieval irrelevant. The government conveyed this perspective to the Supreme Court in August 2013, emphasizing that the islet’s status had been settled through the 1974 and 1976 agreements. Furthermore, in December 2022, the Union government highlighted that Katchatheevu lies on the Sri Lankan side of the India-Sri Lanka International Maritime Boundary Line and that the issue is under judicial consideration.
UPSC Mains Questions
- How have historical agreements and sovereignty claims shaped the ongoing dispute over Katchatheevu between India and Sri Lanka?
- What impact have the fishing restrictions imposed by the 1976 supplemental pact had on the livelihoods of fisherfolk from both nations?
- How has the Union government’s position on Katchatheevu evolved over time, and what legal complexities does the issue face in light of current international maritime boundaries?