The decision of an Indian Coast Guard (ICG) vessel to open fire on a fishing boat resulting in grievous injuries to at least two fishermen off the coast of Thiruvananthapuram on Monday will come under intense legal scrutiny in the coming days.
The incident, which occurred 10 nautical miles off the Beemapally coast, has evoked memories of the fatal shooting of two Indian fishermen allegedly by marine commandos serving on board an Italian vessel, Enrica Lexie, off Kollam on February 15, 2012. The occurrence has triggered much consternation in Kerala’s large fishing community.
The fishing boat Rishika, laden with the day’s catch, had set out from Kanyakumari to the Kollam harbour in quest of a higher price for its rich harvest. The skipper got off mid-voyage and entrusted the vessel to a crew member who did not have the licence to steer it.
Officials said this could be why the boat disobeyed the Coast Guard’s command to halt. Rishika reportedly revved up her engine and attempted to outrun the Coast Guard vessel.
The ICG interceptor craft, call sign C34, viewed it as an “aggressive act” and gave chase. It first fired warning shots and, later, let loose several aimed volleys at Rishika, reportedly from a hand-held automatic carbine. A total of 15 rounds were fired. Subsequently, armed marines boarded the boat and took its control. The injured were hospitalised while the rest seven crew are in ICG custody.
The ICG has opened an internal inquiry to find out whether the use of force was proportional to the perceived threat. It is expected to give a report to the State police soon. Sources said the agency would scrutinise whether or not its vessel followed the rules of engagement.
