A total of 3,996 pilgrims set off by sea to attend the festival at Katchatheevu, an islet located between India and Sri Lanka. The devotees departed from the Rameswaram port after completing mandatory checks by the police, revenue department, citizenship department and customs authorities
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has deployed ships and an aircraft to ensure the safety of fishermen travelling to Katchatheevu Island for the annual two-day festival at St. Antony's Church.
The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court on Thursday sought responses from the Centre and the State regarding a public interest litigation (PIL) petition.