The intricate negotiations surrounding the contentious Katchatheevu islet issue between India and Sri Lanka in January 1974 witnessed a pivotal moment when then Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Sirima R.D. Bandaranaike, placed a crucial telephone call to her Indian counterpart, Indira Gandhi. This diplomatic exchange is credited with salvaging the delicate negotiations from potential derailment, ultimately leading to a significant resolution.
The issue of Katchatheevu has resurfaced in the limelight, particularly in the lead-up to the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi pointing fingers at the Congress for the perceived concession of the islet to Sri Lanka. The historical backdrop of negotiations, as chronicled by W.T. Jayasinghe, former Foreign Secretary of Sri Lanka, sheds light on the intricate diplomatic maneuvers undertaken to address the sovereignty and territorial concerns surrounding Katchatheevu.
Upon Bandaranaike’s arrival in New Delhi for high-level discussions, it became evident that Sri Lanka’s sovereignty over Katchatheevu was no longer a point of contention. However, the precise delineation of maritime boundaries remained a subject of negotiation, especially regarding the territorial sea west of the islet.
During their one-to-one discussions, Bandaranaike and Gandhi delved into the intricacies of the issue, alongside addressing the status of stateless persons of Indian origin. An understanding was reached to integrate these individuals into respective societies, signifying a step towards bilateral cooperation.
Despite significant progress, negotiations encountered hurdles, particularly regarding the delineation of maritime boundaries. Bandaranaike’s proactive approach, including a phone call to Gandhi and subsequent informal discussions, proved instrumental in bridging the divide between the two nations.
The eventual agreement to draw the boundary one nautical mile west of Katchatheevu marked a significant breakthrough, showcasing the efficacy of diplomatic dialogue in resolving complex disputes. The formal signing of the agreement, albeit months later, underscored the enduring significance of the Bandaranaike-Gandhi dialogue in shaping bilateral relations between India and Sri Lanka.
