Katchatheevu church consecration: Pon Radhakrishnan says he's in touch with MEA officials

CHENNAI: After Sri Lanka reportedly told its fishermen that no one, except the bishop of Jaffna, army, navy officials and the person who built the new St Antony's church at

Katchatheevu islet

would be allowed to attend the consecration ceremony on December 7, Union minister of state for road transport, highways and shipping Pon Radhakrishnan, on Saturday, said that he has contacted officials of the Ministry of External Affairs regarding this.

Many fishermen from Rameswaram wish to attend the ceremony. In his statement, Pon Radhakrishnan pointed that fishermen pilgrims from both countries take part in the annual festival of this church. He added that he is in touch with officials from the Ministry of External Affairs on this issue.

Citing the news report that Sri Lanka is allowing only the Jaffna bishop, army, and navy officials for the ceremony, the minister said he is trying to ensure that at least a few people from India participate in the event.