Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a scathing attack on the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the Congress party concerning the Katchatheevu issue, as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) intensifies its campaign in Tamil Nadu ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. PM Modi cited recent revelations from a news report, claiming that these details expose the DMK's purported double standards.

In 1974, during Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's tenure, the Indian government signed an agreement with Sri Lanka, relinquishing India's claim to the Katchatheevu island. This decision sparked controversy, particularly in Tamil Nadu, where there was widespread opposition, given the island's traditional use by Indian fishermen. DMK MP Era Sezhiyan vehemently opposed the agreement in Parliament, labeling it a surrender of territory without proper consultation.

A report published by The Times of India now alleges that then Tamil Nadu chief minister M. Karunanidhi had tentatively agreed to the agreement in a meeting with Indian officials before its announcement by the Centre. The report, based on an RTI reply received by Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai, suggests that Karunanidhi was briefed about the agreement and expressed his inclination to accept it.

"Rhetoric aside, DMK has done NOTHING to safeguard Tamil Nadu’s interests," remarked PM Modi in a post on social media platform X. He criticized both Congress and DMK, alleging that their familial ties prioritize their own kin's advancement over the welfare of others. The prime minister emphasized the detrimental impact of their alleged indifference towards the Katchatheevu issue on the livelihoods of Tamil Nadu's fishermen and fisherwomen.

Katchatheevu is home to St. Anthony's shrine, the sole structure on the island. Under the June 1974 agreement, Indian fishermen are permitted to attend the annual St. Anthony's festival and utilize the island for rest and net drying. However, they frequently face arrest by Sri Lankan authorities.

PM Modi had previously raised the issue during the monsoon session of Parliament last year, revealing that the Tamil Nadu government continues to appeal for the "reclamation of Katchatheevu." The BJP views this issue as a potential political lever in Tamil Nadu, particularly given Sri Lanka's contentious treatment of its Tamil citizens and Tamil Nadu fishermen.

The BJP hopes to leverage the Katchatheevu issue to gain traction in Tamil Nadu during the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The longstanding grievances regarding Sri Lanka's treatment of Tamil citizens and Tamil Nadu fishermen have remained a charged political matter in the state.