The Jaffna Diocese has voiced strong opposition to the government’s proposal to develop Katchatheevu Island into a tourist destination.
Speaking at a press conference held at the Thiruvalluvar Cultural Center in Jaffna on the 3rd, Father Josephdas Jebaratnam, head priest of the Diocese, stressed that Katchatheevu is regarded as a sacred site and warned against any move that could undermine its sanctity. He further stated that the Diocese expects President Ranil Wickremesinghe to hold discussions with church leaders before taking any decision on the matter.
Father Jebaratnam also rejected claims by Tamil Nadu politicians that Katchatheevu belongs to India, emphasizing that the island is part of Sri Lanka and “no one can lay claim to it.”
Meanwhile, Fisheries Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekhar recently revealed that a feasibility study is underway for a tourism development project to link Neduntheevu (Delft Island) with Katchatheevu. The announcement was made during an inspection tour of the island with the President.
The Minister said discussions were also held with the Navy on ensuring the safety of local fishermen, addressing their operational challenges, and exploring future development opportunities. According to him, the project is intended to boost tourism in the region by expanding existing tourism activities from Neduntheevu.
