The Indian Coast Guard intercepted two Bangladeshi fishing vessels deep inside India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the northern Bay of Bengal on December 16, 2025, apprehending 35 crew members for illegal fishing. ICG Ship Anmol detected the boats during routine surveillance, finding deployed fishing gear and approximately 500 kilograms of catch on board. None of the fishermen possessed valid permits or documentation authorizing operations in Indian waters. The vessels were escorted to Paradip port in Odisha for further investigation and legal proceedings under the Maritime Zones of India Act. This incident marks the latest in a series of similar apprehensions, with Indian authorities viewing the incursions as part of an alarming and deliberate pattern rather than isolated navigational errors.

Over the past three months, the Coast Guard has seized multiple Bangladeshi trawlers and detained over 100 crew members for EEZ violations. Officials note that the boats often venture 50-100 nautical miles beyond the maritime boundary, equipped with advanced navigation tools that make accidental crossings unlikely. The northern Bay of Bengal, rich in hilsa and other marine resources, has seen increased activity amid depleting fish stocks in Bangladeshi waters due to overfishing and climate impacts. Indian agencies suspect organized networks encouraging such trespassing for economic gains, with catches sold in local markets.

India's EEZ extends 200 nautical miles from the baseline, granting sovereign rights over resources, while the contiguous zone allows enforcement up to 24 nautical miles. Violations carry penalties including vessel confiscation, fines, and imprisonment. The Coast Guard has intensified patrols with ships, aircraft, and drones to deter intrusions, coordinating with the Navy and state marine police. Diplomatic channels remain open, with New Delhi raising concerns bilaterally to prevent escalation.

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Security experts highlight broader implications, including potential smuggling or reconnaissance risks in sensitive areas near strategic installations. Environmentalists point to unsustainable practices exacerbating regional fish stock depletion, calling for joint conservation efforts. Bangladesh attributes some incidents to fishermen chasing schools across boundaries, advocating better demarcation and communication hotlines.

This recurring pattern strains maritime relations but has not disrupted overall bilateral ties, focused on trade and connectivity. Indian authorities emphasize rule-based order while exploring cooperative fisheries management to address root causes like livelihood pressures on coastal communities.

As apprehensions continue, enhanced surveillance and dialogue aim to balance enforcement with humanitarian considerations for detained fishermen. The incidents underscore challenges in managing shared marine resources amid ecological and economic stresses in the Bay of Bengal. Long-term solutions may involve updated agreements on fishing rights and joint patrols. For now, India's firm stance signals zero tolerance for EEZ violations while prioritizing de-escalation. The latest interception reinforces vigilance in safeguarding maritime sovereignty and sustainable resources.

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