NEWS: Sri Lankan MP Rauff Hakeem stated that the sovereignty of Katchatheevu Island is a settled matter under international law and bilateral agreements.

ABOUT

• A small, uninhabited island located in the Palk Strait.
• Lies on the Sri Lankan side of the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL).
• Historically used by fishermen from both India and Sri Lanka for fishing and drying nets.

LOCATION

• Situated between Tamil Nadu and the Northern Province of Sri Lanka.
• Forms part of the maritime boundary region in the Palk Strait.

KEY FEATURES

• No permanent population and no natural source of drinking water.
• Houses St. Antony’s Church, an important pilgrimage site.
• Indian pilgrims can visit the annual church festival without passport or visa requirements.
• Surrounded by rich marine resources that support fishing livelihoods.

ISSUES & SIGNIFICANCE

• Frequent disputes over fishing rights between Indian and Sri Lankan fishermen.
• Concerns over arrest of fishermen and seizure of fishing boats.