 "Representational image. PTI")
Bangladesh has detained 34 fishermen who entered its waters earlier this week. India has now sought consular access for the men who have been charged with crossing the maritime border.
According to a report by Hindustan Times, the fishermen and two fishing trawlers named FB Jhor and FB Ma Magal Chandi were apprehended by Bangladeshi authorities on July 14-15 near Mongla port.
The fishermen, all residents of West Bengal’s Kakdwip, were accused of crossing the international maritime boundary and fishing in Bangladesh’s territorial waters. It was not immediately clear where they were being detained.
“As soon as information about the incident was received, our high commission in Dhaka took up the matter with Bangladeshi authorities through diplomatic channels, seeking immediate consular access,” one source told the news outlet.
“We are constantly pursuing the matter for facilitating the safe and early return of all the fishermen along with their boats,” the source added.
West Bengal state government, led by the Trinamool Congress, is also taking steps for their repatriation.
Every year, numerous Indian fishermen are detained by authorities in Pakistan and Sri Lanka for allegedly crossing maritime boundaries. Most fishing boats in India and neighbouring countries lack modern navigational equipment, making it common for vessels to unintentionally stray across international waters.