On Sunday, Bangladesh returned 95 Indian fishermen to India, while New Delhi released 90 Bangladeshi fishermen. The exchange process of the detained fishermen commenced amidst strained ties between the two countries. The decision was jointly announced by New Delhi and Dhaka on Thursday.
The coordination of fishermen exchange was handled by the Indian Coast Guard and the Bangladesh Coast Guard. An official statement noted that the Bangladeshi side handed over 95 fishermen and four fishing vessels to the Indian Coast Guard.
It was reported that the Indian Coast Guard released 90 Bangladeshi fishermen, including 12 who were rescued from the sunken fishing boat "Kaushik."
'Indian Fishermen Reached West Bengal'
According to the Indian Coast Guard's report, the Indian fishermen returned from Bangladesh were handed over to the State Fisheries Officers of South 24 Parganas in West Bengal.
The report mentioned that several Indian fishermen have been apprehended by Bangladeshi authorities in recent months after accidentally crossing the international maritime boundary into Bangladeshi waters. Similar circumstances led to the capture of several Bangladeshi fishermen by Indian officials.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) praised the operation, emphasizing its commitment to the welfare of Indian citizens abroad and fostering bilateral cooperation with Bangladesh.
Source: aajtak
Relations Remain Tense Between India and Bangladesh
Following the rise to power of the interim government led by Mohammad Yunus, relations have remained strained between India and Bangladesh. India has consistently voiced its opposition against attacks on minorities, especially Hindus, in Bangladesh.
The ties deteriorated further last month when the interim government sent New Delhi a diplomatic note requesting the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from India. After widespread anti-government demonstrations in August, Sheikh Hasina had to flee Bangladesh. She took refuge in India, where she has stayed since.
