Published Aug 09, 2026 | 11:59 AM ⚊ Updated Aug 09, 2026 | 11:59 AM
INS Kalpeni has joined the search operation off the Neendakara coast.
Synopsis: Search operations to find missing fisherman Gautham Krishna have intensified amid protests from the family and criticism from the Opposition. The Indian Navy’s expert diving team has joined the search operation on Sunday.
The Indian Navy has stepped up efforts to locate Gautham Krishna, a fisherman who went missing after his boat capsized near Neendakara on July 31. Gautham’s father and grandfather, who were on the same boat, had died in the accident.
Amid protests from the family, search operations have intensified with the Navy’s INS Kalpeni joining the rescue efforts on Sunday, 9, August.
The naval vessel, carrying a specialised Navy diving team, sailed from Kochi and is currently anchored about one nautical mile from Neendakara. Marine Enforcement personnel are assisting the team in identifying a suitable location for diving, with the operation expected to begin once the site is finalised.
Krishna has been missing at sea for ten days, and the search continued on Saturday with additional resources deployed. Intermittent rain, rough sea conditions and strong undercurrents have made the operation difficult. Navy personnel, authorities and local fishermen are continuing the search despite the challenging conditions.
Meanwhile, Krishna’s mother, Reshma, staged a protest demanding that authorities intensify the search for her son. Expressing frustration over the response from the government and officials, she said she was not looking for assurances but wanted results.
The developments came after a government official made a controversial remark during a discussion with Reshma.
Thasnima Begum, assistant director at the Neendakara fisheries station, made the remark in reference to a demand raised by Reshma. This triggered protests and widespread criticism, prompting the government to tarnsfer the official to another office in the same district.
Further details regarding the transfer have not been officially disclosed.
The Opposition have also targeted the UDF government, accusing it of sluggishness in the search operations. The DYFI, youth wing of the CPI(M), had staged a protest at the Kollam Collectorate on August 7.
(Edited by Fayisa CA)
