DHAKA: Bangladesh and India have commenced the reciprocal repatriation of detained fishermen, involving 95 Indian fishermen held in Bangladesh and 90 Bangladeshi fishermen held in India. The exchange process, which began today, is anticipated to be finalized by Sunday, according to the foreign ministry’s announcement.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Bangladesh Coast Guard has initiated the handover of 95 Indian fishermen and crew members to the Indian Coast Guard, while simultaneously receiving 90 Bangladeshi fishermen and crew members. This exchange also includes two Bangladeshi fishing vessels detained in India and six Indian fishing boats detained in Bangladesh.
Foreign adviser Md Touhid Hossain, speaking at the recently renovated Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) Lounge, expressed optimism that the exchange will proceed smoothly as scheduled. The repatriation process is being coordinated through the combined efforts of multiple Bangladeshi ministries, the Coast Guard, police, local administration, and relevant agencies.
Once the formalities are completed, the exchange is set to occur at the International Maritime Border on Sunday. The Bangladeshi fishermen and their vessels are expected to return to Chattogram by Monday afternoon.
Bangladesh authorities had detained 95 Indian fishermen and six fishing boats within Bangladeshi waters during October and November 2024. These fishermen, previously held in Bagerhat and Patuakhali District Jails, have been released today. Meanwhile, 78 Bangladeshi fishermen and crews aboard two vessels were detained by Indian authorities on December 9, with an additional 12 detained on September 12 following a boat sinking incident. These fishermen are currently held in Paradeep, Odisha, and Kakdwip, West Bengal, respectively.
During the DCAB Lounge event, the foreign adviser emphasized the importance of responsible journalism in reporting foreign affairs. Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin and outgoing DCAB President Nurul Islam Hasib also addressed attendees, including newly elected president AKM Moinuddin and other DCAB members.