Mamata felicitates 95 fishermen released from Bangladesh, talks of friendly relation with neighbors

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee met 95 fishermen who were recently released from detention in Bangladesh during a visit to Gangasagar today. The fishermen shared their harrowing experiences with the CM, who assured them of support and welfare measures. Among those released, the Chief Minister revealed that one fisherman tragically committed suicide by jumping off the boat out of fear. His family has been provided with financial assistance of ₹2 lakh. All other fishermen were granted an honorarium of ₹10,000 each by the West Bengal government.

Mamata Banerjee expressed her emotions, saying, “My eyes filled with tears on seeing the fishermen. We like the people of Bangladesh, but these fishermen are victims of unfortunate circumstances.” She emphasized her government’s proactive measures to track and support fishermen through initiatives like the Matsya Jeevi Card, which helped identify and monitor their well-being.

Banerjee highlighted that many of the detained fishermen had been subjected to physical torture in Bangladesh. She assured that the state government would arrange for their medical treatment. The CM also instructed the fishermen to avoid crossing international borders while fishing to prevent similar incidents. The Chief Minister spoke about maintaining communication with Bangladesh to facilitate the release of the fishermen. She added, “The Bengal government has carried out the legal process for their return. While I shouldn’t have to say this, it’s important to acknowledge our efforts.”

Mamata Banerjee also mentioned the state’s humane approach, stating that a Bangladeshi trailer mistakenly reaching Bengal was helped and not penalized. She emphasized her desire for continued friendship and cooperation between India and Bangladesh. Additionally, Banerjee said that the central government had been informed multiple times about such incidents, which led to exchanges of views between the two nations. She reiterated that in cases of fatality, the families of deceased fishermen would receive ₹2 lakh as compensation.