India Intercepts Bangladeshi Boats for Illegal Fishing; Dhaka Cries 'Harassment'

• Indian Coast Guard intercepted two Bangladeshi fishing boats with 35 crew and 500 kg fish in India's EEZ on Dec 16.
• The boats were engaged in illegal fishing without valid permits, violating Indian maritime laws.
• This is part of a recurring pattern, with multiple Bangladeshi vessels apprehended recently for similar violations.
• Dhaka is framing these interdictions as 'harassment' of its fishermen, fueling anti-India sentiment domestically.
• Indian intelligence views these as deliberate 'grey-zone' pressure tactics, using civilian boats to challenge sovereignty.

Why It Matters: India intercepts illegal Bangladeshi fishing boats, while Dhaka labels it 'harassment' amid rising tensions.