In election time, this disputed island once again emerges as a recurrent motif, stirring debates and evoking impassioned responses across Tamil Nadu

Amidst the escalating political fervour in Tamil Nadu ahead of the imminent Lok Sabha elections, Katchatheevu emerges once more as a recurrent yet elusive topic, akin to the unexpected pickles accompanying a plate of biryani. This contentious subject continues to command attention, igniting debates and stirring strong sentiments across the region.

Situated in the heart of the Palk Strait, Katchatheevu has long been a focal point in Tamil Nadu’s political dialogue, particularly during election seasons. With the Lok Sabha elections looming, Katchatheevu has once again taken centre stage in Tamil Nadu’s political arena. Political parties, especially those entrenched in the state, are leveraging the Katchatheevu issue to amass support and mobilise voters.

Critics argue that it is ironic for Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Stalin to question the central government’s actions regarding the recovery of Katchatheevu over the past decade. Narendra Modi, along with the Congress and DMK, accuses the unilateral transfer of Katchatheevu to Sri Lanka. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), endeavouring to establish itself in Tamil Nadu politics, seeks to position itself as a champion of Tamil fishermen’s rights. However, the party’s alliances and policies at the national level have often contradicted the interests of Tamil Nadu fishermen, breeding scepticism among voters.

Katchatheevu is a diminutive island spanning a mere 285 acres, devoid of any freshwater source. Since its cession to Sri Lanka in 1974 through a contentious agreement between then-Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Sri Lankan Prime Minister Sirimavo Bandaranaike, Katchatheevu has remained a bone of contention between India and Sri Lanka. The island, with a scant area of 1.15 square kilometres, linked to the Pak Strait, was ratified by Parliament in 1976. Tamil Nadu fishermen have utilised this small island for rest and anchorage for centuries, prompting calls from Tamil Nadu politicians to reclaim it.

This island, christened after the Roman Catholic church in honour of the revered patron saint of Tamil Christian fishermen, is accessible sans passport, facilitating the annual usage by thousands of Indian fishermen for rest and repairs. Nestled amidst the cerulean waters of the Palk Strait, Kachatheevu not only embodies a disputed islet but also hosts the revered symbol of faith — St Antony’s Shrine. This sacred sanctuary, dedicated to St Antony, the patron saint of lost things and fishermen, holds profound significance for the fishing communities of Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka.

The inception of St Antony’s Shrine dates back to the early 20th century when Portuguese missionaries erected a chapel on Kachatheevu to cater to the spiritual needs of the local fishing populace. Over time, the shrine gained popularity, drawing devotees from afar seeking solace and blessings from St Antony. The disputed sovereignty of Kachatheevu has intermittently disrupted pilgrimage activities, escalating tensions between India and Sri Lanka.

Fishermen from Rameswaram, Nagapattinam, Cuddalore and Karaikal (Pondicherry), who historically utilised this island for rest and minor repairs, now face imprisonment in Sri Lankan jails for breaching maritime borders. Disputes stemming from this small island, located just 15 miles from Rameswaram, are straining India-Sri Lanka relations. The clamour to reclaim this island, steeped in historical ties with the ancient kingdom of Ramanathapuram, is gaining momentum. The Tamil Nadu assembly advocates for more authority to address these issues, while the central government has issued directives to allocate resources to tackle these demands.

The sentiment among the people of Tamil Nadu, particularly the fishing community, remains deeply entwined with the Katchatheevu issue. For generations, Tamil fishermen have depended on the waters surrounding Katchatheevu for their livelihoods, and the loss of access to these traditional fishing grounds has inflicted significant hardship.

As Tamil Nadu braces itself for the Lok Sabha elections, the Katchatheevu issue persists as a potent symbol of Tamil pride and identity. The election’s outcome may well shape the future trajectory of this contentious matter, with political parties vying for public support by pledging to reclaim Katchatheevu and safeguard the rights of Tamil fishermen. The ballot box will serve as the ultimate arbiter, determining whether Katchatheevu remains a distant aspiration or materialises as a tangible reality, restoring pride and dignity to the Tamil fishing community.

In conclusion, the Katchatheevu issue stands as a poignant emblem of Tamil Nadu’s struggle for sovereignty and the protection of fishermen’s rights. As the political landscape simmers with fervour ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, the fate of Katchatheevu hangs in the balance, awaiting the verdict of the electorate.

The significance of Katchatheevu extends beyond mere territorial disputes; it embodies the cultural heritage and livelihoods of Tamil fishermen, whose lives are intricately woven with the waters surrounding the island. The relentless efforts of Tamil Nadu politicians to reclaim Katchatheevu underscore the deep-rooted connection between the people and their land, reflecting an unwavering commitment to safeguarding Tamil Nadu’s interests.

However, the road to reclaiming Katchatheevu is fraught with challenges, both political and diplomatic. While promises abound during election campaigns, the true test lies in translating rhetoric into action post-election. The incoming government’s ability to navigate the complex web of international relations while prioritising the welfare of Tamil fishermen will determine the fate of Katchatheevu.

Regardless of political affiliations, it is imperative for elected representatives to uphold the aspirations of the people and work towards a resolution that ensures justice for Tamil Nadu’s fishing community. This entails diplomatic dialogue, strategic negotiations, and unwavering determination to secure the return of Katchatheevu to Indian sovereignty.

As Tamil Nadu heads to the polls, voters hold the power to shape the course of history, steering the trajectory of the Katchatheevu issue. Beyond electoral rhetoric, the voices of Tamil Nadu’s fishermen resonate, echoing their plea for justice and dignity. The ballot box thus becomes not only a symbol of democracy but also a beacon of hope for the restoration of Tamil pride and the preservation of fishermen’s rights. In the end, the resolution of the Katchatheevu issue transcends political victories; it is a testament to the resilience and unity of the Tamil people in their quest for justice and self-determination. As the journey continues, let us remain steadfast in our pursuit of a future where Katchatheevu once again becomes a sanctuary for Tamil fishermen, a beacon of hope amidst the turbulent seas of politics and diplomacy.

(The writer is an associate professor, views  are personal)