Demand for higher compensation for fishermen killed by Cyclone Murasu

Various organisations have requested Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay to increase the compensation amounts provided to the families of fishermen from Chennai's Kasimedu who died during the recent Cyclone Murasu. According to a report by The Hindu, various associations have demanded an increase in the assistance provided by the government.

K. Bharathi of Neithal Makkal Katchi stated that the amount of ₹7 lakh is barely sufficient to protect the interests of families who have lost the sole breadwinner of their home. He further added that larger sums were given as compensation to relatives of those who died in Hooch tragedies or during political rallies.

Manivannan of the Chennai Mechanised Boat Owners Association says that this amount is very low. They are uncertain whether this amount is from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund or the Fishermen Welfare Fund. Generally, the ₹7 lakh compensation is distributed as ₹2 lakh from the welfare fund and ₹5 lakh from the Central Government. Manivannan also stated that the boat owner has promised to pay ₹2 lakh to each family.

Community leader Nanjil Ravi stated that besides government compensation, there is a need for proper insurance cover for fishermen. Giving an example, he said that whenever people travel by air, they are given an insurance cover option. Fishermen should also receive insurance according to their illness or accident, or if they die, their families should receive term insurance. Currently, although the boat is insured, the men receive a very small amount as compensation.

Activist T.S.S. Mani stated that rescue measures are not sufficient when such incidents occur at sea. Disasters can strike at any time, not just during cyclones. Men go missing even during normal voyages. Officials must understand that fishermen lead very difficult lives. The community feels betrayed during such incidents when government support appears to be minimal.

An insurance expert clarified that insurance is generally linked to the respective boat, which is considered a company, and the men are considered its staff. If someone does not come to work, you cannot replace the men. Insurance will only apply to a similar group of men.

Cyclone Murasu became the first Tamil name for an atmospheric disturbance arising due to a drop in temperature.