The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of Bangladesh has firmly denied India’s allegations of mistreating detained Indian fishermen, labeling them as “baseless and fabricated.” In a statement issued on Thursday, Bangladesh expressed disappointment over the claims, stating that such accusations undermine the spirit of trust and mutual respect between the two countries.
The MOFA clarified, “Concerned authorities of Bangladesh have confirmed that, under no circumstances, were the detained fishermen physically abused. The matter was thoroughly investigated, and it was found that no such incident of ill-treatment occurred.”
Proper Treatment of Detained Fishermen
Bangladesh assured that the detained 95 Indian fishermen and crew members were treated appropriately during their stay. The government provided consular access to representatives of the Indian High Commission in Dhaka, who visited the detainees. Additionally, health screenings conducted by relevant hospitals confirmed the fishermen were medically fit.
The fishermen were released on January 2, 2025, and provisions were extended by the Bangladesh Coast Guard during their journey to the maritime border.
Successful Repatriation Process
In a reciprocal exchange on January 5, 2025, near the International Maritime Boundary Line, 95 Indian fishermen were handed over to the Indian Coast Guard, while 90 Bangladeshi fishermen were returned to Bangladesh. The exchange also included the return of detained vessels, with Bangladesh recovering two boats and India retrieving six.
This coordinated effort between the Indian and Bangladesh Coast Guards reflects the commitment of both nations to resolve humanitarian issues collaboratively.
Bangladesh’s Call for Cooperation
The MOFA emphasized the importance of avoiding unfounded allegations that could harm bilateral relations. “Bangladesh calls upon all parties to avoid making such unfounded allegations that undermine the spirit of cooperation and mutual respect between the two countries,” the statement concluded.
