Stalin urges PM Modi not to proceed with Marine Fishermen Bill

Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi not to proceed with the moving of the Indian Marine Fishermen Bill-2021 as it has many disturbing clauses.

In a Demi-Official letter to Mr Modi, copies of which were released to the media here, he said it was an important issue, which was of grave concern to Tamil Nadu, particularly among the coastal districts of the State as many provisions went against the interests of the local fishermen.

The Union Government has recently proposed to move the Indian Marine Fisheries Bill, 2021 during the current session of Parliament. Many provisions in the proposed Bill go against the interests of the local fishermen communities and certain clauses infringe upon the rights conferred to the States under the State List of the Seventh Schedule of Constitution, he said.

It appears that the Bill is being moved without adequately addressing the concerns and well-being of Indian fishermen who are traditionally engaged in this for their livelihood for generations.

"While we understand and appreciate the need to protect and preserve the marine eco system, we also consider it equally important that the livelihood and interests of the traditional fishermen are clearly protected", Mr Stalin said.

As the proposed Bill has many disturbing clauses, like criminalisation and imprisonment of fishermen, use of force against fishermen, levy of charges, levy of huge penalties etc., it has resulted in widespread protests and disquiet, he said.

'I urge you not to move the Bill and also put it across for wider debate and discussions. After obtaining the views of the stakeholders on the Bill in its present form, a decision on moving a fresh Bill that addresses the concerns of the fishermen communities, may be taken", the Chief Minister said and urged Mr Modi not to proceed with the moving of the Marine Fishermen Bill. (UNI)