Indian Fishermen Return Home After Bahrain Detention

Twenty-eight fishermen from Idinthakarai, Tamil Nadu, returned home after being detained in Bahrain for three months for allegedly violating maritime boundaries. Their initial six-month jail sentences were reduced following diplomatic efforts by the Indian government, particularly the Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian Embassy in Bahrain, which provided legal assistance and facilitated communication with their families. The fishermen were welcomed at Thiruvananthapuram airport by Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker M Appavu and Tirunelveli MP C Robert Bruce. Additionally, fourteen fishermen apprehended by Sri Lankan authorities were released after being fined, further highlighting ongoing maritime disputes involving Indian fishermen in the region. Fr. Churchill of the South Asian Fishermen Fraternity expressed gratitude for the efforts leading to the fishermen's release. This incident underscores the Indian government's commitment to protecting its citizens abroad.