Bridging Waters: India-Bangladesh Fishermen Repatriation Plan

India and Bangladesh have initiated a reciprocal repatriation process for fishermen detained in each other's territories. The exchange aims to address humanitarian and livelihood concerns, releasing 95 Indian fishermen from Bangladesh and 90 Bangladeshi fishermen from India, amid strained bilateral relations.

India and Bangladesh announced on Thursday that they will begin a reciprocal repatriation process for fishermen held in each other's custody. This initiative emerges amid existing tensions in their bilateral relations.

Bangladesh will return 95 Indian fishermen to Indian authorities on January 5. In a corresponding move, India has agreed to release 90 Bangladeshi fishermen on the same day. The Ministry of External Affairs emphasized that the exchange is designed to address humanitarian and livelihood issues affecting the fishing communities of both nations.

The recent arrests of Indian fishermen who accidentally crossed into Bangladesh waters have contributed to this diplomatic effort. Similarly, Bangladeshi fishermen have been detained by Indian authorities under similar circumstances. Relations between the two nations have experienced strain following political changes in Bangladesh, which resulted in increased tensions and diplomatic notes seeking the extradition of key figures living in India.

(With inputs from agencies.)