Sunderbans fisherfolk seek security

Author: Times News Network
Publication: The Times of India
Date: December 27, 2003
URL: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/385517.cms

Fishermen in the Sunderbans are still plagued by Bangladeshi pirates, despite the state government's assurance to step up security. This was alleged by Joykrishna Haldar, secretary of the West Bengal United Fishermen's Association, in the city on Friday.
 
The WBUFA held a convention during the day, protesting the proposed eco-tourism project in the Sunderbans and lack of security. The fishermen said there had been a change in the pirates' tactics. "Abduction and hostage-taking have stopped. But our property is being damaged. The pirates enter our shores, beat people and escape with trawlers," complained Haldar.
 
They said such an attack had taken place at Kendo village three days ago. "The fishermen had managed to snatch three fishing nets from the pirates. The Coast Guard was also informed, but the gang returned with more men and attacked us," said Haldar. A year ago, the state government had formed a committee under the South 24-Parganas district magistrate.
 
The committee had suggested certain measures with clearly defined roles for the Coast Guard, Border Security Force and police. WBUFA members alleged that none of the agencies had taken any steps. According to them, 56 trawlers have been taken away by the pirates. A senior Coast Guard official said some steps were on the anvil.WBUFA has threatened to stage road blockades in Kolkata in March if the government does not guarantee their right to fish after the project comes up.
 
"The entry of private parties in the Sunderbans will deprive us of our livelihood. The rivers flowing through the delta are the only way to reach the sea for fishing. Once the private parties come in, we will not be allowed to set foot there," said Shyam Sundar Das, a senior member of the association.
 

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