India has formally requested consular access to meet 34 Indian fishermen detained by Bangladesh for allegedly fishing in its territorial waters. The Indian High Commission in Dhaka has already initiated diplomatic communication with the Bangladesh government to facilitate this.
According to Indian government sources, on the night of July 14-15, the Bangladesh Navy detained two Indian trawlers, *FB Jhor* and *FB Maa Mangal Chandi*, along with their 34 crew members near Mongla port for crossing the international maritime boundary. The fishermen were subsequently handed over to the Bangladesh Police and sent to prison as per legal procedures.
An Indian official stated, “As soon as we received news of the detention, the Indian High Commission in Dhaka promptly requested consular access. Our priority is to ensure the safe and swift return of the fishermen along with their trawlers.”
Highlighting the context of bilateral relations, the official noted that ties between India and Bangladesh have experienced some strain following the ousting of the Sheikh Hasina government on August 5 last year. Despite this, on January 5 this year, Bangladesh handed over 95 Indian fishermen to the Indian Coast Guard, while India reciprocated by releasing 90 Bangladeshi fishermen.
Under existing bilateral agreements, both nations have committed to treating fishermen who unintentionally cross maritime boundaries with humanity, as they often lack the technology to identify invisible sea borders. However, India has raised concerns that the detained fishermen are facing unusually swift legal action this time. “Such a response is unprecedented, and we are taking the matter very seriously,” the official added.
For context, consular access refers to the right of a country’s consulate or embassy officials to meet and communicate with their citizens who are arrested, detained, or held in custody abroad, providing legal and humanitarian assistance.
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