Despite ongoing tensions, India and Bangladesh have initiated a reciprocal exchange of fishermen and their vessels. On Thursday, Bangladesh agreed to release 95 Indian fishermen into Indian custody, while India confirmed it would free 90 Bangladeshi fishermen.
The governments emphasized that the decision was made with humanitarian considerations in mind, particularly for the fishing communities on both sides. A statement from the Indian government noted, “Earlier today, 95 Indian fishermen were handed over by Bangladeshi authorities to the Bangladesh Coast Guard, who will transfer them to the Indian Coast Guard on January 5. On the same day, 90 Bangladeshi fishermen will be released in a coordinated repatriation operation, which will conclude at sea between the respective coast guard authorities.”
In addition to the fishermen, two Bangladeshi vessels and six Indian boats will also be exchanged. The Bangladeshi crew members are expected to return to Chattogram on January 6.
