Sri Vijaya Puram, June 27: Serious allegations of custodial assault have emerged from a group of fishermen in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, who have accused Coast Guard personnel of detaining and brutally assaulting them during a fishing expedition near the Diglipur sea region, prompting demands for an impartial high-level investigation.
According to a detailed representation submitted to authorities, around ten fishermen from Panighat village in Hope Town Gram Panchayat had set out on June 15 aboard two fishing vessels for routine fishing operations towards Diglipur waters. The vessels were identified as Sagar Ratan (Boat No. IND-AN-SA-MO-1805) and Bhulok Matha (Boat No. IND-AN-SA-MO-2375).
The fishermen stated that after completing fishing activities near Diglipur, they began their return journey on June 20. On June 21, while near East Island/Landfall Island waters, personnel from Coast Guard vessel ICGS Rajdoot 87 allegedly boarded the fishing boats, inspected all documents and licences, and, after verification, allowed the crew to continue their operations.
However, the fishermen alleged that on June 22 at around 05:30 AM, the same Coast Guard vessel intercepted them again during their movement near the same sea zone. As per the representation, three fishermen were taken aboard the Coast Guard vessel, while others were instructed to bring the second fishing boat closer.
The fishermen alleged that once onboard, the detained crew members were subjected to physical assault. They claimed they were forced to kneel and were beaten repeatedly during questioning regarding their presence in the area. The fishermen stated they explained that adverse weather conditions, including strong winds and rough seas, had affected their ability to receive warnings, but the alleged assault continued.
The complaint further alleged that the fishermen were beaten with hard objects, including rods, and that one of the victims suffered severe hand injuries after his fingers were allegedly twisted and crushed. The fishermen also claimed the assault continued intermittently for several hours before they were eventually handed over to Diglipur Police later in the day around 04:00 PM.
The representation stated that police later examined the fishing vessels and found no illegal materials, while all documents were reportedly in order. The fishermen were also medically examined, although they alleged that treatment provided was minimal despite visible injuries.
Supporting the allegations, representatives of the Fishermen’s Association stated that they were informed of the incident on June 22 and subsequently inspected the injured fishermen. They claimed the victims were deeply traumatised and initially hesitant to record statements due to fear and distress.
The association further stated that the matter was escalated to senior administrative and police authorities, including the Chief Secretary and Superintendent of Police, South Andaman. According to them, officials assured that a formal inquiry would be conducted based on written complaints submitted by the affected fishermen.
In the formal representation addressed to the Lieutenant Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the association has demanded strong disciplinary and criminal action against the personnel involved, alleging illegal detention and custodial assault at sea.
The complaint also referred to the role of fishermen in coastal security awareness, stating that they function as vital observers at sea. It further urged authorities to ensure accountability so that such incidents are not repeated.
The Fishermen’s Association has warned of protest action if justice is not delivered, while maintaining that they seek a fair and impartial investigation into the allegations.
The Wave Andaman has written mail to the Andaman Coast Guard seeking clarification regarding the allegations raised in the fishermen’s complaint.
An official response from the Coast Guard authorities on the allegations is awaited.
