Bhatkal: All 24 fishermen from Honnavar, who were arrested during a protest against the proposed port in Kasarkod, have been released on bail after 24 days. Upon their return to Kasarkod-Tonka, hundreds of villagers gathered at midnight, bursting firecrackers and celebrating their release.

On February 25, the district administration arranged a road survey for Honnavar Port Pvt Ltd under heavy police security, which led to widespread protests. Over 50 fishermen, including women, jumped into the sea in defiance but were later rescued. With prohibitory orders in place, police arrested 24 protesters and sent them to Karwar Jail, while others went into hiding, fearing arrest.

Following the arrests, fishermen leaders met with Karnataka Chief Minister and other ministers, urging them to intervene and halt the port project. Meanwhile, they sought legal assistance from the Association for Protection of Civil Rights (APCR) to secure the release of the arrested protesters. Senior advocate B.T. Venkatesh assisted Karwar-based advocate Ashwini Gowda in filing a bail plea in the Karwar Sessions Court. On March 7, Advocate B.T. Venkatesh personally appeared in court and argued for the release of all detained fishermen.

On March 19, the court granted bail, and after completing legal formalities, all 24 fishermen were released late on March 20. A special bus was arranged for their return, reaching Kasarkod-Tonka early Friday morning at around 1:45 AM, where a large crowd welcomed them with fireworks and celebrations.

Among those released were Karavali Minugaar Sangha President Rajesh Tandel and Persian Boat Fishing Association President Hamza Ismail Patel. Meanwhile, the fishermen who had gone into hiding secured anticipatory bail.

Speaking to SahilOnline, a fishermen leader reaffirmed that protests against the port project would continue as it threatens their livelihood. "We will not allow the port to be built here. We will now take our fight to the High Court for justice," he stated.