New Delhi:
In a gesture of humanitarian cooperation, India and Bangladesh are set to exchange detained fishermen, despite the current strain in their bilateral relations. This reciprocal repatriation involves the return of 95 Indian fishermen and 90 Bangladeshi fishermen, along with the exchange of fishing vessels, highlighting the countries’ commitment to addressing the livelihood concerns of fishing communities.
The move comes at a time when tensions between the two nations have escalated, particularly over issues such as attacks on minorities in Bangladesh and the status of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has been living in India since fleeing her country in August.
Mutual Release and Repatriation
On January 5, 2025, India and Bangladesh will conduct a mutual release and repatriation operation. Bangladesh will hand over 95 Indian fishermen to the Indian Coast Guard, while India will release 90 Bangladeshi fishermen. This process was initiated on January 2, 2025, when Bangladesh authorities transferred the Indian fishermen to the Bangladesh Coast Guard.
The exchange will also include the return of two Bangladeshi fishing vessels detained in India and six Indian fishing boats held in Bangladesh. The repatriation will be completed at sea, facilitated by the respective Coast Guard authorities of both countries.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety, security, and welfare of Indian fishermen, who have been arrested in recent months for inadvertently crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line into Bangladeshi waters. Similarly, several Bangladeshi fishermen have been apprehended by Indian authorities under similar circumstances.
The reciprocal repatriation is a significant step, aiming to ease the lives of fishing communities and underscore the importance of maintaining peaceful relations between the two nations. Despite the current diplomatic strains, this initiative reflects a commitment to humanitarian and livelihood concerns, setting a positive precedent for future cooperation.
