India seeks release of 34 fishermen detained by Bangladesh

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Bangladesh has detained 34 Indian fishermen for allegedly entering and fishing in its territorial waters, official sources said on Friday, adding that India is actively working with Dhaka to secure their early and safe return.

According to the sources, the fishermen and their two fishing trawlers were apprehended during the night between July 14 and 15.

The Indian High Commission in Bangladesh has raised the issue with the local authorities through diplomatic channels and has sought immediate consular access to the detained fishermen, the sources added, as reported by PTI.

"We are constantly pursuing the matter for facilitating the safe and early return of all the fishermen along with their boats," one of the sources said.

Bangladeshi authorities have accused the Indian fishermen of crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line and conducting fishing activities in their territorial waters, the sources said.

(With agency inputs)