The Madras High Court directed the Indian Coast Guard to file an affadavit on plans to protect Tamil Nadu fishermen attacked by the Sri Lankan Navy.
Justice Vinod K Sharma, and Justice A Selvam, asked the state and central government to produced details of future steps, though made clear that the court could not direct the Indian government to protect fishermen in Sri Lankan waters. The judges said, "You should ensure that they do not cross the International Maritime Boundary Line. Tell us the steps taken to protect them,"
The judges rejected a plea by petitioners asking that fishermen be allowed to carry arms.
"This court cannot give such directions", said the judges. "That will amount to court asking to wage a war."
