New Delhi, Dec 18 (ANI): Activists of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazagam (AIADMK) party staged a protest against the proposed Marine Fisheries Bill here on Friday.

The activists termed the proposed Marine Fisheries Bill as anti-fishermen.

The Marine Fisheries (Regulation and Management) Bill was scheduled to be tabled in the ongoing session of the parliament.

The party opined that the new Act would affect the fishermen adversely as it limits fishing by the Indian fishermen within 12 nautical miles.

The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) also supported agitation saying the bill favours the overseas fishing vessels.

“This intended bill is against the fishermen’s interest. They have to take permission for fishing after 12 nautical miles, but this bill allows the other foreigners to come in our waters and beyond 12 nautical miles also they can fish. Also, there are lots of restrictions in this bill. One is, you have to use such type of nets, you have to fish this type of fish only. All these restrictions will hamper the activities of these fishermen,” said Mysoora Reddy, the TDP MP.

The proposed bill makes license mandatory for the fishermen and also provides for a fine of rupees 900, 000 if they cross the 12 nautical miles limit.

The bill sets down conditions for the use of fishing nets and also on the variety and quantity of the fish to be caught by the fishermen. (ANI)