Modi Criticizes DMK and Congress Over Handling of Katchatheevu Issue

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sharply criticized Tamil Nadu’s Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and its ally Congress, accusing them of failing to protect the interests of Tamil Nadu in relation to the Katchatheevu island dispute with Sri Lanka. In a series of statements, Modi accused the previous Congress government, led by Indira Gandhi, of “callously” ceding the uninhabited island to Sri Lanka, highlighting this as an act that compromised the welfare of local fishermen. He further attacked the DMK for exhibiting “double standards” and neglecting Tamil Nadu’s interests, as revealed by new details emerging on the issue.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), through its leaders including Union External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, joined Modi in condemning the actions of both Congress and the DMK. Jaishankar criticized the historical handling of the Katchatheevu issue, pointing out the dismissive attitude of former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru towards the island. He emphasized the need for public awareness regarding how the island was handed over to Sri Lanka, including the relinquishment of fishing rights, which has adversely affected thousands of Indian fishermen over the years.

The controversy around Katchatheevu has resurfaced as a significant political issue, with the BJP highlighting the Congress and DMK’s alleged negligence and politicizing the matter ahead of the general elections. Despite opposition claims of politicization, Jaishankar insists that the issue remains pertinent, given the extensive debate it has sparked in Parliament and among Tamil Nadu’s political circles. The historical decisions and handling of the Katchatheevu issue continue to stir controversy and debate within India’s political landscape.

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