Chennai, Jan 24 (Reporter) Expressing concern over the continuing arrests of Tamil Nadu fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy and stressing the need for urgent diplomatic efforts, Chief Minister M.K.Stalin on Wednesday urged External Affairs Minister Dr.S.Jaishankar to take necessary steps to convene the Joint Working Group (JWG) to sort out the long pending issues between the Indian fishermen and the Lankan Navy and to secure the early release of the apprehended fishermen and their fishing boats. In a Demi-Official letter to Dr Jaishankar, copies of which were released to the media this evening, Mr Stalin drew his attention to the arrest of six fishermen from Ramanathapuram district by the Sri Lankan Navy along with their fishing boats on January 22. In recent times, there has been a disturbing trend of arrests involving Tamil fishermen by the Sri Lankan authorities, creating an alarming situation that demands immediate attention, he said. Pointing out that these arrests not only undermine the traditional fishing rights of the Tamil community, he said it also contribute to a climate of fear and uncertainty among the fishing population. "The arrests jeopardise these rights, threatening the cultural and economic fabric of the Tamil fishing communities", Mr Stalin said. In light of these concerns, there is a pressing need for diplomatic efforts to address the situation, the Chief Minister said, adding, revival of the JWG between India and Sri Lanka focused on fisheries-related issues, could provide a constructive platform for dialogue. "I request you to take the necessary steps through appropriate diplomatic channels to convene the Joint Working Group to sort out the long pending issues between the Indian fishermen and the Sri Lankan Navy so that the arrests of innocent fishermen are avoided", he said. Mr Stalin also urged the EAM to secure the early release of TN fishermen and their boats from Sri Lankan custody...////...