CITU Fishermen Association Asserts Innocence of Four Fishermen Detained in Kuwait Prison
23rd April 2024M. Karunamoorthy, district secretary of the Kadal Tholilalar Sangam, affiliated with the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), has voiced concern over the plight of four fishermen from R S Mangalam and Thiruvadanai taluk in Ramanathapuram district, languishing in Kuwait prisons. Karunamoorthy emphasized that the fishermen are innocent and urged the Union government to intervene swiftly to secure their release through diplomatic channels.
According to Karunamoorthy, the four fishermen—M. Karthik (22), J. Sesu (43), M. Chandru (20), and S. Vinodkumar (27)—were employed as casual laborers in Kuwait in 2023. Recruited on a contractual basis by a Kuwaiti boat owner, they were engaged in fishing activities. However, their employment took a drastic turn when a Kuwaiti boatman was allegedly found in possession of narcotics on their vessel. Subsequently, during a police search, the fishermen were apprehended and placed in judicial custody.
Karunamoorthy highlighted the challenges faced by the fishermen in navigating the legal system, including the absence of legal representation and language barriers. Despite evidence indicating their financial innocence, the fishermen remained unaware of the potential consequences due to their limited understanding of the local language and legal proceedings.
The fishermen were informed that the Kuwaiti court would deliver its verdict on May 7. In light of this imminent decision, Karunamoorthy called upon the Indian government to intervene promptly and ensure justice for the detainees.
Additionally, Karunamoorthy appealed to the Tamil Nadu government to extend financial assistance of ₹2 lakh to each of the four families, who are currently struggling to make ends meet. He asserted that the families, including women and children, are apprehensive about the situation and urged governmental intervention to alleviate their distress.
Despite efforts to seek assistance from local representatives, including MPs and MLAs, the fishermen’s families have yet to receive relief. Karunamoorthy urged these officials to intervene urgently and facilitate the safe return of the fishermen to their homeland.
The case underscores the challenges faced by migrant workers abroad and emphasizes the importance of robust diplomatic efforts to safeguard their rights and ensure justice in such situations.
