Manama [Bahrain]: The Indian Embassy in Bahrain successfully facilitated the repatriation of 28 Indian fishermen detained in the country. Initially sentenced to six months of imprisonment, their sentences were reduced to three months, paving the way for their return to India.
Indian Embassy’s Role
The Embassy, in coordination with the Bahraini authorities, provided legal assistance and ensured travel arrangements under the Government of India’s Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF). In a post on X, the Embassy stated:
“India in Bahrain is pleased to announce the repatriation of 28 Indian fishermen who were recently freed after a reduction in sentence from 6 to 3 months. The Embassy facilitated legal assistance and travel under GoI’s Indian Community Welfare Fund. Well-being of Indian nationals is our priority.”
The Embassy also expressed gratitude to Bahraini authorities for their cooperation and swift response, including consular access to the detained fishermen.
Background
The fishermen, hailing from the Idinthakarai fishing village in Tamil Nadu’s Tirunelveli district, were detained by the Bahrain Coast Guard on September 11, 2023, for inadvertently crossing the maritime border while working on Iranian-owned boats.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin had earlier written to External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar requesting immediate diplomatic action to secure their release, emphasizing the plight of the fishermen’s families who were heavily reliant on their income.
In his letter, CM Stalin stated:
“It has come to my attention that 28 fishermen from Idinthakarai fishing village, Tirunelveli District, who were engaged in fishing labour in Iran, were apprehended by the Bahrain Coast Guard… The families of the fishermen, who are highly dependent on their income, have been severely impacted by the arrest.”
Safe Return
The Embassy’s efforts ensured the fishermen’s return to their families, marking a significant success in upholding the welfare of Indian nationals abroad.
This incident highlights India’s proactive diplomatic approach in safeguarding the rights and well-being of its citizens overseas.