Katchatheevu Island Dispute Reignites Before Indian Elections

Surprisingly, the long-settled India-Sri Lanka dispute over Katchatheevu Island has again taken center stage. The tiny, uninhabited island, spanning approximately 1.9 square kilometers (0.7 square miles), lies in the Palk Strait, which separates India and Sri Lanka. Here are the key points:

Historical Context:

Since 1921, both British colonies, India and Sri Lanka (then Ceylon) had staked claims to fishing rights in the waters surrounding Katchatheevu.

1974, India unilaterally relinquished its claim to the island, effectively ending the dispute.

A subsequent agreement between India and Sri Lanka prohibited citizens from fishing in each other’s waters.

Recent Controversy:

India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, accused the opposition Congress party of “callously” giving away Katchatheevu to Sri Lanka during their tenure.

New information accessed by a leader from Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) revealed debates within the federal government about Katchatheevu in the 1960s.

The BJP’s move to highlight this issue ahead of elections has drawn sharp reactions from the Congress party, who accuse Modi of political opportunism.

Tamil Nadu’s Sensitivity:

Katchatheevu is a sensitive issue in Tamil Nadu, where the BJP aims to gain votes.

Tamil Nadu, a southern state, will vote in the first phase of the general election on April 19, 2024.

The controversy has intensified as opposition leaders claim the BJP uses Katchatheevu to sway regional voters.

Also Read: U.S. Ambassador urges Ukraine defense against growing threats

Jawaharlal Nehru’s Stance:

Documents obtained by the BJP reveal that India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, attached “no importance at all” to Katchatheevu.

Nehru expressed willingness to give up India’s claims to the island.

However, some officials argued that India had a “good legal case” based on the historical continuity of Indian rule over Katchatheevu between 1875 and 1948.

In conclusion, the once-settled Katchatheevu Island dispute has resurfaced as a political flash point. As the election season unfolds, the island’s historical significance and impact on bilateral relations remain subject to intense debate.