India and Bangladesh Conduct Mutual Release of Fishermen Who Crossed Maritime Boundary
In a significant humanitarian gesture, India and Bangladesh have completed a mutual exchange of fishermen who were detained for inadvertently crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL). The coordinated effort, prioritizing the safety and livelihood concerns of fishing communities, saw the release and repatriation of 47 Indian fishermen and 38 Bangladeshi fishermen, along with their vessels.
The fishermen had been recently arrested by authorities from both countries after unintentionally crossing into each other's waters. Such incidents are common due to the closely situated and shared maritime borders, where fishermen sometimes unknowingly navigate into the other nation's territory.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India stated that the mutual exchange was organized keeping in mind the humanitarian aspect and the importance of fishing for the livelihoods of the communities on both sides. The Indian government has emphasized its commitment to the safety, security, and welfare of Indian fishermen and has been actively working to secure their release from custody in Bangladesh.
Earlier in the year, a similar exchange took place with Bangladesh handing over 95 Indian fishermen to the Bangladesh Coast Guard, which were then handed to the Indian Coast Guard on January 5, 2025. In return, India released 90 Bangladeshi fishermen. The MEA had said that diplomatic channels were consistently engaged to secure the release of Indian nationals.
The recent coordinated operation involved the Coast Guards of both nations, ensuring the safe return of the fishermen to their respective countries. This included the return of seized vessels, enabling the fishermen to resume their livelihoods without further delay or losses.
The MEA has reiterated the importance it places on the well-being of Indian fishermen. The government continues to work "assiduously" to ensure their safety and security.
On December 1, 2025, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) detained a Bangladeshi trawler with 15 fishermen for violating Indian waters in the Bay of Bengal. The ICG spotted the suspicious trawler while patrolling and handed the fishermen over to the police for further action.
The frequent arrests of fishermen highlight the challenges of managing maritime boundaries and the need for continued cooperation between India and Bangladesh. The release of the fishermen serves as a positive step in fostering better relations and ensuring the well-being of the fishing communities that depend on these waters.
