Fishing nets of about 20 Indian boats from Tamil Nadu were damaged allegedly by Sri Lankan Navy personnel near Katchatheevu islet, Indian media reports.

Rameswaram Fishermen Association president S Emerit said today that 535 mechanised boats from the coastal town had put out to sea on the night of October 15.

The Sri Lankan naval personnel came to the area in five boats, allegedly snapped the fishing nets of 20 boats and threatened them at gunpoint against fishing near the islet, forcing them to leave the area.

Emerit has told media that according to the fishermen, the Sri Lankan naval personnel were harassing them even if they fished in Indian territorial waters. Despite drawing the attention of the Coast Guard, no action had been taken, he had told further.

He also urged the union government to take necessary steps to bring back the 82 boats, seized by Sri Lankan naval personnel, as the boats have been damaged due to rain.