What Happened to the Mute and Deaf Fisherman in Bangladesh Jail?
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Synopsis
A mute and deaf fisherman from Kakdwip, West Bengal, tragically dies in a Bangladeshi jail. While initial reports suggest a heart attack, his family raises suspicions, fearing torture. As the community mourns, efforts are underway to repatriate his body for a second autopsy. This incident raises serious concerns about the treatment of prisoners.
Key Takeaways
- Babul Das was a mute and deaf fisherman from Kakdwip.
- He died in a Bangladeshi jail under suspicious circumstances.
- The family questions the official cause of death—heart attack.
- 34 fishermen were arrested for allegedly violating international waters.
- Demands for a second autopsy are being made by the family.
Kolkata, Nov 16 (NationPress) A fisherman from Kakdwip in the South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal has tragically passed away while in custody at a Bangladeshi jail, according to police reports on Sunday.
The deceased has been identified as Babul Das (25), a resident of the West Gangadharpur locality in Kakdwip.
Babul, who was both mute and deaf from birth, was apprehended alongside other fishermen for purportedly infringing upon the India-Bangladesh maritime boundary.
Upon receiving the news of the fisherman's demise late Saturday night, his family was overwhelmed with grief.
Reports indicate that Babul, who was in custody awaiting trial, suffered a heart attack, and the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission in Kolkata notified the family. Nonetheless, the family has raised questions regarding the circumstances surrounding his death.
According to police accounts, two fishing trawlers named 'FB Mangalchandi' and 'FB Jhar' from Kakdwip were seized by the Bangladesh Navy on July 13 for allegedly encroaching into Bangladeshi waters.
A total of 34 Indian fishermen were detained. The two trawlers had departed from Kakdwip to fish for Hilsa in deeper waters. The detained fishermen were subsequently handed over to the Mongla Port Police Station in Bangladesh.
On July 15, a case was filed, and the Bagerhat court mandated that the fishermen remain in judicial custody. They have been in Bangladeshi jails since then as undertrial detainees.
Babul's sibling, Basudeb Das, informed media representatives on Sunday that they first learned of the death from the Harwood Point Coastal Police Station.
He expressed confusion regarding the nature of Babul's death.
Despite receiving confirmation of the death via a phone call from the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission, Basudeb asserted, "Even though my brother was mute and deaf, he had no other health issues. He was actually quite robust. This death seems suspicious. We suspect he may have endured torture in prison. We demand that his body be returned to Kakdwip for a second autopsy."
Following the announcement, Satinath Patra, Secretary of the Sundarban Shramjivi Matsya Union, visited the family and assured them that Babul's body would be returned promptly.
"The news of the fisherman’s death in a Bangladeshi jail due to a heart attack is heartbreaking. We will do everything possible to bring his remains back to our country," Patra stated.
Point of View
This tragic event sheds light on the ongoing issues of cross-border fishing disputes and the treatment of fishermen in foreign jails. It is crucial to advocate for humane treatment and transparency in such cases, ensuring justice for individuals caught in complex international laws. The incident emphasizes the need for better diplomatic relations and protections for fishermen who often find themselves in precarious situations.
NationPress
16/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused Babul Das's death?
Babul Das reportedly died of a heart attack while in custody, but his family suspects foul play.
Where was Babul Das from?
Babul Das was from Kakdwip, located in the South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal.
Why was Babul Das arrested?
He was arrested along with other fishermen for allegedly violating the India-Bangladesh international waters.
How many fishermen were apprehended?
A total of 34 Indian fishermen were apprehended during this incident.
What actions are being taken by the family?
The family is demanding a second autopsy and seeking to repatriate Babul's body to Kakdwip.
