DHAKA, Jan 2, 2025 (BSS) –  The reciprocal repatriation of 95 Indian fishermen detained in Bangladesh and 90 Bangladeshi fishermen detained in India  begun today, which is expected to be completed Sunday next, said the foreign ministry here today.

“Bangladesh Coast Guard has initiated the process of handing over 95 Indian fishermen/crew members to the Indian Coast Guard and receiving 90 Bangladeshi fishermen/crew members,” read a ministry’s press release.   

Besides, two Bangladeshi fishing vessels detained in India and six Indian fishing boats detained in Bangladesh will also be exchanged between the two Coast Guards.

“If everything (formalities) goes as per schedule, the exchange of the fishermen will be held on Sunday,” foreign adviser Md Touhid Hossain told reporters while visiting the recently renovated DCAB (Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh) Lounge at the foreign ministry this afternoon.    

This repatriation process is being facilitated through the joint efforts of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Shipping, Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, Bangladesh Coast Guard, Bangladesh Police, local administration, and other relevant agencies, said the ministry’s release.  
After the handing over on Sunday at the International Maritime Border, the Bangladeshi fishermen and crews, along with their fishing vessels, are expected to return to Chattogram in the afternoon of Monday.

Bangladesh authorities detained total 95 Indian fishermen and six fishing boats inside Bangladesh Waters during October and November 2024.

The 95 Indian fishermen/crew members, who were held in Bagerhat and Patuakhali District Jails, have been released today.  

On the other hand, near the international maritime boundary, a total of 78 Bangladeshi fishermen and crews aboard two fishing vessels, FV Laila-2 and FV Meghna-5 were detained by Indian authorities on December 9 last.

Besides, 12 Bangladeshi fishermen who were detained by Indian authorities on September 12 last after their fishing boat FB Kaushik sank due to adverse weather conditions, have already been released from jails.

The 78 Bangladeshi fishermen are held in Paradeep, Odisha in India under the supervision of Indian Coast Guard while 12 Bangladeshi fishermen are held in Kakdwip in West Bengal.

At the Lounge visit ceremony today, the foreign adviser also highlighted the role of media in doing responsible journalism while covering various foreign affairs issues.

Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin and DCAB outgoing President Nurul Islam Hasib spoke while newly elected president AKM Moinuddin was present along with the other DCAB members.