S Jaishankar discusses DMK’s involvement in Katchatheevu Island row from the beginning.

In a recent event in Bikaner, Rajasthan, EAM Jaishankar addressed the Katchatheevu island controversy. He criticized the DMK for distancing themselves from the matter and blaming the central government. Mr. Jaishankar emphasized that the DMK was involved in the discussions from the beginning, and their then chief minister agreed to the agreement behind closed doors.

He underscored the need for transparency in political decisions and expressed concern about parties saying one thing in public and deciding differently behind closed doors. Additionally, Mr. Jaishankar highlighted a statement by India’s first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, where he allegedly disregarded the significance of Aksai Chin, suggesting that the Congress has no attachment to India’s land. The territorial and fishing rights dispute around Katchatheevu Island has resurfaced ahead of the general elections, with the BJP and the opposition trading accusations over the issue.

The island, situated between Rameswaram in India and Sri Lanka, has been traditionally utilized by fishermen from both countries. In 1974, the central government accepted Katchatheevu as Sri Lankan territory under the “Indo-Sri Lankan Maritime Agreement.” Earlier this month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized the Congress and DMK for their handling of the Katchatheevu island issue.

He accused the Congress of “callously” giving away the island and alleged that the Tamil Nadu ruling party did little to protect the state’s interests. *Note: The news story has been reproduced as received from a syndicated feed without any NDTV staff intervention except for the headline. *