On December 26, 2025, the anniversary of the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami, fishermen renewed their demand to be classified as Scheduled Tribes (ST). They say this status will help them get better education reservations and stronger representation. Community leader Durai Mahendran said, "Without reservation, the community has remained socially and educationally backward, with no IAS officers or judges from among its members." He added, "We are fighting for space among the Most Backward Classes (MBCs). Other States have granted the ST status to the fishing community. With respect to us, successive governments have only made empty promises." Another leader, K. Bharathi, said the day reminded fishers of their tough situation. "Although we are among the first responders, the government lacks a clear plan for responding when a calamity strikes the coast. We do not have pattas for our homes and are losing land to various projects. Reservation in education for our children is necessary to ensure sustainable livelihoods," he said. On this day, fishermen from villages around Chennai stayed ashore and prayed to the Goddess of the Sea by pouring milk and offering flowers. They hope their voices will lead to real change soon.