Katchatheevu Island Issue

SYLLABUS:

GS 2 > International relations   >  India and Neighbours

REFERENCE NEWS:

• The controversy over Katchatheevu Island has resurfaced as a significant political issue in the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections due to the current National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, criticizing the Congress party for its role in the 1974 agreement that recognized Katchatheevu Island as Sri Lankan territory. 
• In February 2024, fishermen associations in Ramanathapuram district boycotted the annual Katchatheevu festival, held at St. Antony’s Church, to protest against the Sri Lankan Government’s continuing arrests of Indian fishermen on charges of poaching.

KATCHATHEEVU ISLAND:

TIMELINE OF EVENTS:

COMPLEXITIES AND SIGNIFICANCE OF THE KATCHATHEEVU CONTROVERSY FOR INDIA:

• Historical Agreements and Bilateral Relations: 
  • The 1974 agreement, recognizing Katchatheevu island as part of Sri Lanka, anchors India-Sri Lanka relations. Any reconsideration of this accord may destabilize the diplomatic relationship, questioning the foundational ties and potentially affecting long-standing bilateral relations.

• Fishing Rights and Livelihood Impacts: 
  • The Katchatheevu controversy has severely impacted Tamil Nadu's fishing communities. Restricted fishing rights and the detention of fishermen and seizure of their boats by Sri Lankan authorities highlight ongoing issues causing diplomatic tensions. These measures have significantly disrupted the economic stability and mobility of these communities, threatening their livelihoods.
• Domestic Politics and Socio-Cultural Impacts: 
  • In Tamil Nadu, the issue deeply resonates, influencing local politics and the socio-cultural fabric of the region. Political entities leverage the controversy for support, while cultural tensions manifest, evident in actions like the boycott of the annual festival at St. Anthony’s Church—a significant cultural event for both countries' fishing communities.
• Legal, Sovereignty, and Federal Concerns: 
  • The dispute raises questions about sovereignty, territorial integrity, and India’s adherence to international treaties. Revisiting the 1974 agreement could undermine the principle of cooperative federalism, as demonstrated by protests in Tamil Nadu, highlighting grievances regarding the lack of consultation with the state government before ceding territory.
• Regional Geopolitics and Security: 
  • Katchatheevu’s strategic position in the Palk Strait brings geostrategic significance, especially against the backdrop of growing Chinese influence in the Indian Ocean. India’s stance on the island could be pivotal in countering China’s maritime strategy, emphasizing the broader implications for regional security and maritime boundaries.
• Impact on Other Bilateral Agreements and Regional Relations: 
  • The controversy threatens to destabilize existing agreements and trust with neighboring countries, not only affecting India-Sri Lanka relations but potentially damaging ties with other nations, such as Bangladesh, with finalized land boundary agreements. 
  • Reopening the Katchatheevu debate could be perceived as India adopting more assertive stance in the region (big brother attitude), undermining the architecture of boundary agreements and propelling the growth of Chinese influence, thus detrimentally impacting the gradual improvement in India-Sri Lanka ties post the Sri Lankan economic crisis.

WAY FORWARD:

• Bilateral Dialogue and Diplomatic Engagement: 
  • India should initiate a high-level bilateral dialogue with Sri Lanka, focusing on creating a comprehensive solution that addresses the core issues of fishing rights, maritime security, and economic cooperation. This dialogue could be supported by track-II diplomacy, involving experts, scholars, and members of the fishing communities from both countries.
• Legal and International Norms: 
  • Both nations should consider the application of international maritime law and conventions to find a mutually agreeable framework for managing fishing rights and maritime boundaries. This may involve revisiting the agreements of 1974 and 1976 with a view to updating them in line with current realities and legal standards.
• Joint Patrols and Maritime Cooperation: 
  • To reduce tensions and incidents of detention, India and Sri Lanka could establish a joint patrol system in the disputed waters. This would help manage fishing activities and ensure the safety and security of fishermen, potentially under the guidance of a bilateral maritime committee.
• Fishermen's Livelihood and Support Programs: 
  • Recognizing the socio-economic impact on fishermen, both governments could work on developing alternative livelihood programs for affected communities, such as aquaculture development, maritime tourism, and vocational training in other sectors.
• Cultural and Religious Cooperation: 
  • Given the socio-cultural significance of Katchatheevu, particularly the annual festival at St. Antony’s Church, India and Sri Lanka could jointly promote and protect the religious and cultural heritage of the island, ensuring open and visa-free access for pilgrims and cultural events.
• Regional Geostrategic Considerations: 
  • India must consider the broader geopolitical implications of its stance on Katchatheevu. This involves maintaining a balanced approach that safeguards its strategic interests in the Indian Ocean region while avoiding actions that might push neighboring countries towards rivals like China.

PRACTICE QUESTION:

Q. “The Katchatheevu controversy is significant for India as it encompasses a complex mix of diplomatic, legal, economic, and social dimensions”. Discuss. (10 marks, 150 words)