DHAKA, Jan 7, 2025 (BSS) - The Department of Prisons has denied West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's claim that Indian fishermen, arrested for illegally entering Bangladesh's waters, were tortured in prisons before their release recently.

In a protest statement issued here today, the prisons department said Mamata Banerjee claimed that some of the arrested fishermen were limping; they were beaten up with thick sticks, and their hands were tied with ropes, and they were not given medical treatment, which is "completely baseless."

"We hope that all responsible individuals and institutions will ensure the accuracy of the information and statements they raise on sensitive issues, which will further strengthen the relations between the two countries," said the statement.

The statement said a report published in various electronic and print media under the headline "Bangladesh beat Indian fishermen with sticks, says Mamata Banerjee."

The Department of Prisons said on January 02 last, some 31 fishermen were released from Patuakhali District Jail and 64 from Bagerhat District Jail.

"Representatives from the Indian High Commission were present during the release. The relevant Indian nationals did not complain of torture in the prison during the handover. All the prisoners were fit during their release," the statement added.

It added a health certificate was also issued by an assistant surgeon. According to the certificate, the Indian nationals received proper treatment in jail and enjoyed equal facilities with Bangladeshi prisoners in jails.

Even, as many of them arrived in a single clothe, the prison authorities provided all kinds of clothes, including winter clothes, to them under their own management.

Kolkata-based media 'News Bangla' in a report said a prisoner in an interview stated that they were not tortured in prison.

"Therefore, the allegations raised by Mamata Banerjee are not true," said the statement of the Department of Prisons.

It said prisons in Bangladesh always treat all prisoners equally, regardless of race or religion. "In the case of foreign prisoners, the matter is dealt carefully and their special care is taken. 

"Prisoners of all religions are given the opportunity to observe their religious festivals and customs in prison, and special food is also served to all prisoners on special festivals."