Tensions eased in the Bay of Bengal as India and Bangladesh completed a major fishermen repatriation on Thursday dawn. Twenty-three Indian fishermen, held captive for straying into Bangladeshi waters, were returned home alongside their two Indian Fishing Boats (IFBs). In return, India set free 128 Bangladeshi fishermen and five boats seized in its EEZ.
The coordinated swap at the IMBL involved meticulous planning between the foreign ministries and coast guards of both countries. Bangladeshi authorities had arrested the Indians for breaching the international maritime boundary during fishing operations. Similarly, Indian Coast Guard had detained the Bangladeshis under the Foreigners Act for unauthorized fishing in protected zones.
Indian vessels ICGS Samudra Prahari and ICGS Vijay handed over the Bangladeshi group to their counterparts on Kamaruzzaman and Sonar Bangla. Post-verification of documents, the Indians were safely transferred back.
Heading to West Bengal shores, the ICG ships carried the repatriated Indians and boats, soon to be transferred to local administration for family reunions. The Defence Ministry praised the Ministry of External Affairs for prioritizing humanitarian concerns of fishing communities.
‘Successful repatriations like this demonstrate our joint resolve to protect fishermen’s lives and promote cooperation in common seas,’ the statement noted, highlighting mutual maritime collaboration.
Amid celebrations, ICG warned against IMBL violations, citing detentions, economic distress, and delays in returns. Advanced tech like GPS and DAT on boats allows position monitoring, but intentional shutdowns by errant crews heighten dangers, particularly in cyclone-prone Bay of Bengal waters where disappearances are common.
This event not only resolves immediate humanitarian issues but also serves as a reminder for stricter adherence to sea boundaries, ensuring safer fishing for all.