Fri Jan 03 10:03:42 UTC 2025: ## India and Bangladesh to Repatriate Fishermen Amid Strained Ties
**New Delhi, January 3, 2025** – India and Bangladesh have announced a reciprocal repatriation of fishermen currently detained in each other’s custody, a move aimed at easing tensions in their bilateral relationship. The exchange, scheduled for January 5th, will see 95 Indian fishermen released by Bangladesh and 90 Bangladeshi fishermen released by India. The repatriation will also include the return of fishing vessels.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that the exchange prioritizes the humanitarian concerns of the fishing communities. Recent months have seen numerous arrests of fishermen from both countries after inadvertently crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line. The MEA emphasized India’s commitment to the safety and welfare of its fishermen.
The agreement comes amidst heightened tensions between the two nations following the rise of an interim government in Bangladesh and subsequent events, including concerns over the treatment of minorities and a request for the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, currently residing in India. While the repatriation is a positive step, the underlying issues impacting India-Bangladesh relations remain unresolved. Both countries’ Coast Guards will oversee the exchange at sea.
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