TN Govt Working to Bring Slain Fisherman's Body From Saudi Arabia: Minister

CHENNAI — The Tamil Nadu government is making efforts to bring back the body of a fisherman who was shot dead by suspected Iranian pirates off the Saudi Arabian coast, Public Works Department Minister Aadhav Arjuna informed the state assembly on Thursday.

The deceased fisherman, identified as P Maveeran from Mayiladuthurai district, was killed on August 10. Three other fishermen sustained injuries in the attack and remain hospitalised in Saudi Arabia.

Responding to a calling-attention motion moved by opposition leaders, including AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami, the minister explained that an ongoing investigation in Saudi Arabia had caused a delay in repatriating the mortal remains.

"Mayiladuthurai district collector is making efforts to bring the injured fishermen as well as the body of Maveeran to India. Diplomatic efforts have begun and state fisheries secretary is coordinating with the external affairs ministry," Aadhav said.

During the discussion, Palaniswami raised the demand for financial assistance for the family of the deceased fisherman and for the injured survivors. In response, Aadhav stated that Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay would take appropriate action regarding the matter.

The calling-attention motion on the issue was also moved by DMK MLA Senthil Selvan, PMK MLA C Sivakumar, CPI MLA T Ramachandran, and CPM MLA R Chellasamy.