Dhaka terms alleged mistreatment of Indian fishermen baseless, fabricated

Bangladesh has expressed its utter dismay and deep disappointment over the unfounded remarks and fabricated allegations of ill-treatment, including physical abuses of the detained Indian fishermen by the Bangladesh authorities.

“Bangladesh firmly rejects such unfounded allegations, which undermines the spirit of trust, goodwill and mutual respect between Bangladesh and India,” said the foreign ministry in a media statement issued on Thursday (January 9).

The foreign ministry said that the matter was thoroughly investigated and it was found that no such ill treatment or incident of physical abuse happened.

“Concerned authorities of Bangladesh have confirmed that, under no circumstances, were the detained fishermen physically abused,” read the media statement.

It said Bangladesh wished to mention that the detained 95 Indian fishermen and crew members were treated appropriately during their stay in Bangladesh.

As per the international norms, consular accesses were duly granted to the representatives of the Indian High Commission in Dhaka, who visited the fishermen during their detention.

The representatives of the Indian diplomatic missions were also present during the release of Indian fishermen on January 2, 2025 from the jails and during the fishermen’s departure from Mongla on January 4, 2025.