Navy renews denial of attacking Indian fishermen

IANS: The Sri Lanka Navy has denied attacking Indian fishermen in Sri Lankan waters, saying it was worried over such “malicious allegations”.

The Navy said in a statement that a thorough inquiry found that no such attack took place 9 March.

Reports alleging an attack in the Indian media were “based on inaccurate, hearsay reports without any evidence or credible proof,” it said.

“There is a deep concern that such malicious allegations against the Sri Lanka Navy are disguised attempts to harm the friendship, cooperation and the excellent understanding between India and Sri Lanka. There is excellent cooperation between the Navies of Sri Lanka and India,” it added.

It said the Sri Lanka Navy had come to the rescue of Indian fishermen in distress on humanitarian grounds on many occasions and provided them with assistance using its vessels and personnel.

“The Sri Lanka Navy will continue its humanitarian operations in future as well.”