Tamil Nadu fishermen call off strike

Fishermen from Rameswaram on Thursday called off their strike demanding protection from alleged attacks by Sri Lankan navy following assurances by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi that he would take up the issue of providing security to them with the Centre.

The fishermen went on strike after recent incidents of killing of fishermen. Also, a large number of fishermen were detained for a day by Sri Lankan Navy for fishing in the island nation's waters.

Seven representatives of various fishermen's associations on Thursday met the Chief Minister in Chennai and discussed the security issue, among others.

During the meeting, it was decided to provide a cash relief of Rs five lakh each to the families of the fishermen who were killed by Sri Lankan Navy while those injured would be given Rs 50,000.

The Chief Minister also promised that he would consider their grievances and assured protection for fishermen while fishing in high seas.

The Chief Minister said that he would draw the Centre's attention in this regard and take all possible steps to provide them security.