Indian fishermen detained in Lanka could get bail

Around 100 Indian fishermen who have been detained by Sri Lankan police are likely to be granted bail on Wednesday.

Sri Lanka's Deputy minister of External Affairs, Neomal Perera told PTI that the fishermen will be produced before a magisterial court. "This is a bailable offence," he said.

The deputy minister said instructions have been issued to relevant authorities to make necessary arrangements to produce the arrested fishermen before a magistrate since courts in the country are closed today due to public holiday.

The Indian fishermen were intercepted by Sri Lankan fishermen off the coast of Point Pedro in the north, and were handed over to the police. Diplomatic efforts have been underway since then to get the fishermen released.

The Indian high commission officials had discussions with the external affairs ministry yesterday and Indian consulate in Jaffna peninsula is in touch with the fishermen.