In a significant display of maritime cooperation and humanitarian diplomacy, India and Bangladesh successfully conducted a mutual repatriation operation in the early hours of Thursday, January 29, 2026. The coordinated effort saw the release of 151 fishermen and seven vessels that had been detained for crossing international maritime borders.

The Repatriation Exchange

The exchange took place at the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) in the Bay of Bengal. According to official statements, the Indian Government facilitated the return of 23 Indian fishermen and two Indian fishing boats (IFBs) that had been held in Bangladesh.

In a reciprocal gesture, the Government of India released 128 Bangladeshi fishermen and five fishing boats. These individuals had previously been apprehended by the Indian Coast Guard for unauthorized fishing activities within India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

The logistics were handled by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and the Bangladesh Coast Guard (BCG). The Indian Coast Guard Ships Samudra Paheredar and Vijaya met the Bangladeshi vessels Kamaruzzaman and Sonar Bangla at sea to ensure a safe and orderly transfer of personnel and equipment.

Background: A Shared Maritime Challenge

The Bay of Bengal is a vital yet complex fishing ground where maritime boundaries are often porous. Fishermen from both nations frequently drift into foreign waters due to engine failures, unpredictable weather, or the simple pursuit of better catch.

Historically, these incursions have led to prolonged detentions, causing significant distress to the families and livelihoods of these coastal communities. To address this, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and maritime authorities from both nations have increasingly prioritized humanitarian-led diplomatic channels over strict legal prosecution.

A Commitment to Cooperation

The MEA emphasized that this successful operation is a testament to the “collective commitment” of both New Delhi and Dhaka toward the safety of fishing communities. By prioritizing livelihood concerns over maritime disputes, both nations aim to foster a more collaborative environment in their shared seas.
The 23 returned Indian fishermen are currently being escorted to their respective state administrations for health check-ups and reunification with their families.

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