New Delhi, 29 January (H.S.): In a compassionate humanitarian move on Thursday, India and Bangladesh mutually released 151 fishermen who had been detained for violating international maritime boundaries.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday, Bangladesh repatriated 23 Indian fishermen, while India sent back 128 Bangladeshi fishermen to their homeland.

Earlier, in January and December 2025, India had secured the release of its own 142 fishermen. At the same time, it had released 128 Bangladeshi fishermen on humanitarian grounds.

The ministry emphasized that this reciprocal exchange of fishermen and their vessels was conducted with due regard to the humanitarian and livelihood concerns of the fishing communities on both sides.

The ministry further stated that the Government of India accords the highest priority to the safety, security, and welfare of Indian fishermen. During their detention in Bangladesh, the Indian High Commission continuously monitored their conditions, provided them with warm jackets, and attended to their essential needs.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar