Fri Jan 03 08:03:29 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 significant step amidst recently strained bilateral relations. On January 5th, 2025, India will release 90 Bangladeshi fishermen, while Bangladesh will hand over 95 Indian fishermen to Indian authorities. The exchange, facilitated by the respective Coast Guards, also includes the return of fishing vessels.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasized the humanitarian aspect of the repatriation, citing the livelihood concerns of the fishing communities involved. Many fishermen from both countries are inadvertently apprehended after crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line.
The gesture comes at a time of heightened tension between the two nations following the rise to power of Bangladesh’s interim government and subsequent events. These events include concerns raised by India regarding attacks on minorities in Bangladesh and a diplomatic request for the extradition of exiled Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is currently residing in India. Despite these complexities, both countries have prioritized resolving the fishermen’s situation. The successful repatriation is seen as a positive step, albeit a small one, towards improving relations.
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