CPI(M) demands ₹50 lakh for families of missing Visakhapatnam fishermen

The CPI(M) is seeking ₹50 lakh ^[1] in compensation for each family of six fishermen missing off the coast of Visakhapatnam.

The demand highlights the financial vulnerability of fishing communities in Andhra Pradesh, where the loss of a primary breadwinner often leads to immediate economic collapse.

The party raised these demands at the Fishing Harbour in Visakhapatnam four days after the boat went missing ^[1]. In addition to the long-term compensation, the CPI(M) is calling for ₹1 lakh ^[2] in interim relief to provide immediate support to the affected families.

The six fishermen disappeared while operating off the coast, leaving their families without a source of income. The party's push for significant financial aid reflects the high risk associated with deep-sea fishing in the region, a sector that remains critical to the local economy but lacks comprehensive social safety nets.

Representatives from the CPI(M) said the requested funds are necessary to ensure the survival of the families during the search and subsequent mourning period. The party is urging the state government to act swiftly to provide the interim payments while the status of the missing crew remains uncertain.

This action follows a pattern of advocacy by the party to increase safety standards and insurance coverage for maritime workers in Andhra Pradesh. By targeting a specific high-value compensation figure, the party aims to set a precedent for how the government handles maritime disasters involving small-scale fishing operations.