Don’t go near international borders: Mamata Banerjee’s advisory to Bengal fishermen​on January 6, 2025 at 12:39 pm

Don’t go near international borders: Mamata Banerjee’s advisory to Bengal fishermen

​Don’t go near international borders: Mamata Banerjee’s advisory to Bengal fishermen Don’t go near international borders: Mamata Banerjee’s advisory to Bengal fishermen   

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday urged fishermen in the state to avoid venturing near international borders, particularly with Bangladesh, after 95 Indian fishermen were released from Bangladeshi prisons on Sunday.

“Bangladesh is our neighbour. We love each other. But our fishermen have become victims. Ever since our government was formed, we have issued identity cards to fishermen to track them when they go missing. It was due to this card that we learnt our fishermen were detained. I am telling all fishermen not to go near the international borders,” she said.

The fishermen, who were arrested between October and November last year for allegedly venturing into Bangladeshi waters, were brought to Sagar Island after their release on Sunday.

“One fisherman jumped into the sea and lost his life. The state government provided Rs 2 lakh compensation to his family. Some were limping and I asked them the reason and came to know our fishermen were beaten up badly after being detained. We are giving them medical treatment,” the West Bengal Chief Minister said, recounting their ordeal.

She highlighted a similar incident involving a Bangladeshi trawler that accidentally entered Indian waters. “We provided medical care to some Bangladeshi fishermen who were unwell,” she added.

Expressing hope for stronger India-Bangladesh relations, Banerjee noted that her government had informed the Indian central government about the incidents.

She reiterated her advice to fishermen, urging them to stay clear of international borders to prevent further complications.