Sri Lanka, Feb. 6 -- Fishermen from several regions initiated a satyagraha protest in front of the Presidential Secretariat yesterday afternoon, demanding the government reverse its decision to ban mechanical equipment in the beach seine (Madal) fishing industry. Groups from districts, including Mullaitivu, marched to the location earlier in the day, prompting authorities to strengthen police security around the office.

The protest escalated into a sit-in after discussions between fishing representatives and government officials failed to reach a resolution. While these traditional fishermen seek the continued use of mechanical aids, several small-scale fishing organisations in Chilaw held a separate press conference to express their gr...