During a media conference in Colombo on July 1, 2025, the secretary of Kayts Fishermen Cooperative Society urged the government to organize talks to resolve the longstanding fisheries conflict affecting local fishermen due to illegal practices by Indian trawlers. This call comes amid ongoing arrests and boat seizures of Indian fishermen in Sri Lankan waters.

Representatives from Kayts Fishermen Cooperative Society have voiced strong opposition to the proposed Fisheries Act, warning that its provisions will allow foreign fishing permits and further privatize the fishing sector. The cooperative argues that such changes threaten the livelihoods of local fisherfolk and plans to address these concerns directly with the Ministry.

Secretary Annalingam Annarasa of Kayts Fishermen Cooperative Society voiced concerns over the proposed Fisheries Act, arguing that by allowing foreign fishing permits and increased privatization, the legislation undermines local livelihoods. The cooperative intends to present their concerns directly to the Ministry, positioning themselves against policies that could exacerbate exploitation and authoritarian control in the sector.

The article alleges that established fishermen’s cooperative associations, including the Kayts Fishermen Cooperative Society, have failed to defend the economic and political interests of local fishermen by aligning with Tamil capitalist parties and supporting IMF austerity measures, thereby neglecting the rights of the working class.