Don’t move marine fisheries bill in Parliament, it has ‘disturbing clauses’: MK Stalin to PM Modi

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi not to move the Indian Marine Fishermen Bill, 2021 during the ongoing Monsoon session of Parliament, saying that it has many “disturbing clauses.”

“Many provisions in the proposed Bill go against the interests of the local fishermen’ communities and certain clauses infringe upon the rights conferred to the States under the State List of the 7th Schedule of the Constitution of India,” he wrote.

‘Does not address concerns, well-being of Indian fishermen’

The chief minister also said that the Centre has proposed to move the Bill without adequately addressing the concerns and well-being of Indian fishermen who are traditionally engaged in this for their livelihood for generations.

“While we understand and appreciate the need to protect and preserve the marine ecosystem, we also consider it equally important that the livelihood and interests of the traditional fishermen are clearly protected,” CM Stalin said.

‘Proposed Bill has many disturbing clauses’

Stalin also claimed that the proposed Bill has many disturbing clauses, such as criminalisation and imprisonment of fishermen, use of force against fishermen, levy of charges, and levy of huge penalties, which has resulted in widespread protests and disquiet.

Urging PM Modi not to move the Bill and also put it across for wider debate and discussions, Stalin wrote, “After obtaining the views of the stakeholders on the Bill in its present form, a decision on moving a fresh Bill that addresses the concerns of the fishermen’s communities, may be taken. Considering the above, I once again urge you not to proceed with the moving of the Indian Marine Fishermen Bill, 2021.”