The Madras High Court in Madurai has dismissed a petition that sought permission for fishermen to travel in their fibreglass reinforced plastic (FRP) motorised boats to participate in the annual festival of St. Antony's Shrine at Katchatheevu islet. The festival is scheduled for February 27 and 28, but the court upheld the authorities' decision to deny the request, emphasising security concerns and regulatory compliance.
Background of the Petition
The public interest litigation was filed by J Brinso Raymond, a fisherman from Ramanathapuram district. Raymond had previously filed a petition in 2018, which led to the court directing authorities to permit fishermen to travel in traditional country boats for the festival starting from 2019. Following this order, fishermen attended the festival in country boats without any reported issues.
Upgrade to Fibre Boats and Subsequent Rejection
Raymond argued that many fishermen have since upgraded from country boats to more modern fibre boats. He submitted a representation seeking permission to use these fibre boats for the upcoming festival. When no action was taken, he filed a new petition in 2025. The court initially disposed of this petition by directing the authorities to consider and pass orders on his representation.
However, the authorities rejected the request, citing risk factors. Raymond challenged this rejection, noting that the current travel arrangements to Katchatheevu involve a charge of 2,000 rupees per person on authorised boats, which many fishermen cannot afford. He contended that allowing them to use their own fibre boats would alleviate this financial burden.
Court's Decision and Reasoning
A division bench comprising Justice G Jayachandran and Justice K K Ramakrishnan heard the case. The bench observed that travel to Katchatheevu is strictly regulated by the government to ensure the security of individuals. The judges stated that there could be no deviation or exception to these regulations.
The authorities had denied permission for fibre boats, highlighting potential risks associated with their use. The court agreed with this assessment, dismissing the petition and upholding the authorities' decision to reject the request for fibre boat travel to the festival.
Implications for Fishermen
This ruling means that fishermen will continue to rely on the current travel arrangements, which may pose financial challenges for many. The decision reinforces the government's stance on maintaining strict control over travel to sensitive areas like Katchatheevu, prioritising security over convenience or cost-saving measures.
The annual festival at St. Antony's Shrine remains a significant event for the fishing community, but this legal outcome underscores the balance between religious practices and regulatory security protocols.
