Did the ICG Detain a Bangladeshi Trawler with 15 Fishermen for Intruding into Indian Waters?
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Synopsis
The Indian Coast Guard has made headlines again by apprehending a Bangladeshi trawler with 15 fishermen for illegally entering Indian waters in the Bay of Bengal. This incident highlights ongoing tensions and the importance of maritime security in the region. Read on to find out more about this significant event.
Key Takeaways
- The Indian Coast Guard actively patrols Indian waters to prevent illegal fishing.
- 15 Bangladeshi fishermen were detained for breaching Indian maritime boundaries.
- Increased surveillance in the Bay of Bengal aims to curb future violations.
- Historical tensions exist regarding fishing rights between India and Bangladesh.
- Local demand for fish drives illegal fishing activities.
Kolkata, Dec 1 (NationPress) The Indian Coast Guard apprehended a Bangladeshi trawler with 15 fishermen on Monday for breaching Indian waters in the Bay of Bengal. Following the detention, the fishermen were transferred to the police.
During a routine patrol in the Bay of Bengal on Monday morning, the Indian Coast Guard observed a questionable trawler. A speed boat from the Coast Guard pursued the trawler.
Ultimately, the trawler was captured. Upon questioning the fishermen aboard, it was revealed that the vessel was registered in Bangladesh. Consequently, the Indian Coast Guard detained the 15 fishermen along with the trawler.
Sources indicate that the trawler was subsequently taken to Fraserganj in the South 24 Parganas district.
The trawler and fishermen were then transferred to the Fraserganj Coastal Police Station. Following this, the police arrested the 15 Bangladeshi fishermen on charges of illegal intrusion. The trawler was identified as FB Alla Malik.
Satinath Patra, Secretary of the Sundarban Fishermen's Union, stated: "A special type of fish is prevalent in Indian waters during the winter season, which is highly sought after in Bangladesh. This demand leads to repeated violations of Indian waters by Bangladeshi trawlers. Previously, there have been multiple instances of such intrusions. The Indian Coast Guard is now actively monitoring these waters, resulting in the recent apprehension of several Bangladeshi trawlers and their crews."
It’s noted that numerous Bangladeshi trawlers were intercepted for similar violations in November, and many fishermen were arrested.
In response, surveillance in the Bay of Bengal has been intensified to deter unlawful entry into Indian waters.
Earlier this year, 62 fishermen from Kakdwip in West Bengal inadvertently crossed international waters into Bangladesh while in search of Hilsa in the deep sea. One of them tragically died while in custody in a Bangladeshi correctional facility. Since then, the families of the remaining 61 fishermen from Kakdwip have been living in distress.
Point of View
This incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the Indian Coast Guard in safeguarding national waters. The apprehension of the Bangladeshi trawler demonstrates the commitment of Indian authorities to enforce maritime laws and protect local fisheries. Continued vigilance in the Bay of Bengal is essential to prevent future violations and maintain regional stability.
NationPress
01/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the detention of the Bangladeshi trawler?
The Indian Coast Guard detained the Bangladeshi trawler after it was found violating Indian waters during a routine patrol in the Bay of Bengal.
How many fishermen were aboard the trawler?
There were 15 fishermen aboard the detained Bangladeshi trawler.
What has been the historical context of such incidents?
There have been multiple instances in the past where Bangladeshi trawlers have intruded into Indian waters, driven by demand for specific fish in Bangladesh.
What actions are being taken to prevent such violations?
The Indian Coast Guard has increased surveillance in the Bay of Bengal to deter illegal fishing and protect national maritime interests.
What happened to the fishermen after their apprehension?
After being detained, the fishermen were handed over to the Fraserganj Coastal Police Station, where they were arrested on charges of illegal infiltration.
